The Greene County Board of Education held a called session, Monday, November 10, 2025 to receive a report on the Community Input Process of the Superintendent Search for Greene County School System conducted by the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB). Ms. Susan Salter, AASB Consultant, coordinated local stakeholder engagements in October and November with 33 attendees as well as a stakeholder survey with 76 respondents. Salter noted that although there was a small number of parent and community participants, the responses were similar. “There was a consistency in views,” she said.
Regarding superintendent traits desired, the community input listed the following: strong communication skills, good listener, relationship builder, approachable, committed to accountability and transparency, creates a good work environment, leadership ability – has strength to make difficult decisions but can be flexible, and have strong visibility in community.
In responding to challenges the new superintendent will face, the participants listed declines in enrollment; issues at the middle school; special education services; parent involvement. Other challenges include student achievement (academic and behavior), teacher recruitment, morale and retention and improving communications with parents and the public.
When asked if the superintendent should be hired from among existing employees, from outside the school system, or no preference, approximately 44% indicated no preference; 32% said from within the system; 25 % said from outside the system.
Ms. Salter stated that next steps include accepting applications through December 10, 2025. All applications must go through AASB. In this process the board does not accept superintendent applications.The link to apply is on the board’s website and can be widely distributed. AASB will screen and vet all applicants (checking credentials and references) and select five finalists. Salter and the board will compile a list of questions for the finalists. She suggested creating about 10 questions for an hour interview with each finalist.
On December 15, Susan Salter will give the board the final list of the top five candidates screened and recommended by AASB. The board will schedule the interviews beginning December 17. The interviews of the top five applicants for superintendent will be open to the public.