The Kennett Consolidated School District board voted unanimously May 20, 2024, to elect Dr. Kimberly Rizzo Saunders as the district’s next superintendent, filling the role left by Doctor Dusty Blakey. The board set the term to begin Aug. 23, 2024, and end June 30, 2029.
Board members praised Saunders during discussion leading up to the voice vote, saying she impressed throughout the interview process and reflected the district’s priorities. Board member Finnegan moved the appointment and Bowden seconded the motion. The chair called for a voice vote; the board responded "Aye" with no recorded opposition or abstentions.
Saunders, who the board said had been superintendent in another district and was a finalist for national superintendent of the year, accepted the appointment and thanked the board and community. She said Kennett Consolidated was the only district she had considered and described her mantra as "all means all," pledging to finalize an entry plan with the board and administration that will prioritize listening and learning.
Board members thanked the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) and HR staff for their role in the search. Chair remarks closed the special meeting with recognition of the technology team for facilitating the virtual meeting.
Next steps: the district will publish Saunders’ entry plan and begin transition work ahead of her Aug. 23 start date.