The District 205 Board of Education has released the results of a community survey conducted as part of its search for a new superintendent, with staffing and retention, student academic achievement, and transparency emerging as top priorities among respondents.
The survey drew 317 responses during a three-week window from April 6 through April 28. The search was triggered by Superintendent John Asplund’s announcement in March that the 2026-27 school year will be his last, ending a decade leading the district. His retirement takes effect June 30, 2027.
Board of Education President Courtney Rodriguez told WGIL the feedback will directly shape how the district screens and evaluates candidates.
“The data will be used to develop a leadership profile and guide the screening and interview process for superintendent candidates,” Rodriguez said. “While survey responses are only one part of the selection process, stakeholder input is a valuable part of ensuring the Board selects a candidate who aligns with the needs and vision of the district.”
What the community said
Respondents were asked to identify the top challenges facing the district, the immediate concerns a new superintendent should be prepared to address, and the characteristics they would like the next leader to have.
On challenges, recruitment and retention led at 17.6%, followed by student academic achievement at 16.3% and meeting the needs of a diverse student population at 12.2%.
When asked about immediate concerns for the incoming superintendent, staffing and retention again ranked first at 20.9%, followed by academic achievement and student growth at 20.3% and school safety and security at 19.2%.
On characteristics, respondents most often cited transparent and ethical leadership at 17%, followed by collaborative and team-oriented at 12.4% and student-centered at 12.1%.
Search update
The board has not disclosed how many applications it has received. Rodriguez said the number is being kept confidential to protect the integrity of the process and the privacy of candidates.
Applications are due Aug. 3, 2026. The board expects to select a candidate in fall 2026, with the new superintendent beginning July 1, 2027. The position carries a base salary minimum of $230,000.
Board conducting search without outside firm
At the April board meeting, former board member Tianna Cervantez raised questions during public comment about the board’s decision to conduct the search without an outside firm — an approach that differs from the district’s last two superintendent searches.
Previously: District 205 board will conduct superintendent search without outside firm
Rodriguez defended the decision, saying the board is directly involved in each stage of the process, including reviewing applications, gathering community input, and selecting candidates for interviews.
“The Board remains committed to conducting a thorough, transparent, and thoughtful process,” Rodriguez said.
Updates on the search are posted at galesburg205.org.
