Woodland Hills School Board Might Conduct Official Superintendent Search

Woodland Hills School District officials are considering beginning an official search for a superintendent.

On Wednesday, the Woodland Hills School Board discussed possibly approving a search at the April 17 legislative meeting. The new superintendent's three or five-year term would most likely begin July 31.

But some board members aren't in favor of conducting a search at all.

The board didn't extend former superintendent Walter Calinger's contract at the end of 2012—he had been on medical leave since April 2012. Assistant Superintendent Alan Johnson has been acting as deputy superintendent since.

School board member Jeff Hanchett said going out for a search would be "very unfair" to Johnson.

"He's worked very hard during this period of time," he said.

Board President Regis Driscoll said it's not the board's intent to insult Johnson's capabilities.

"It's my belief that this is the way we should do it," he said. "When we hired Mr. Johnson, he was hired as an assistant superintendent, and I think this will put everything to rest."

Board member Marilyn Messina agreed.

"I think a highly-qualified person would be more than happy to say, 'Bring it on because I'm the one,'" she said. "I think it'll validate what we have here."

School board member Tara Reis said officials aren't obligated to conduct an official search.

"Why is it in our best interest to go out on a search that wastes time, energy and money when we already have the man we want," she said.

Just because it isn't a requirement doesn't mean it isn't necessary, board member Colleen Filiak said.

"There are a lot of things that this board needs to do prior to appointing a superintendent, and I for one support that we follow the correct path," she said.

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