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Hancock Public Schools will seek the assistance of a hiring firm for its search for a full-time superintendent. The district opened its special meeting to visitor comments. Hancock resident, Chris Locust, discussed what he feels has been an issue in the past, transparency and communication.
“And some of the same problems existed then, as they did later. And perhaps even now. As a parent, I not only want to know, I need to know. And I don’t think it’s inappropriate, to expect to know what’s going on with the school district. As much as possible. I understand there are some things that get discussed that can’t be shared.” – Chris Locust, Hancock Resident
Locust’s comments showed a desire within the community to support the district to keep Hancock kids in Hancock schools. Hancock Middle School English teacher Karyn Rudak expanded on others’ comments to the board. She addressed staff desires for more robust avenues of communication between the district and faculty.
“Communication is very important. I think that should be a priority for the board. You have a big task. I think what the staff and the faculty want is consistency. And we want to feel like we aren’t going to go through huge changes again. Because we’ve been through a lot of big changes.” – Karyn Rudak, Middle School Teacher, Hancock Middle School
Hancock School Board President Catherine Jordan thanked the public for its input. Jordan urged other members to review videos from the Michigan Association of School Boards that may help as they get settled into their new positions and a new school year. The board did not choose to set aside a specific dollar amount for services provided by a hiring firm. Hancock Public Schools hopes to find a permanent candidate for the superintendent role in the coming weeks. In the meantime, High School Principal Chris Salani will continue his duties as the interim superintendent and athletic director.
