Kennett board approves two administrative hires as superintendent search moves to interviews

The Kennett Consolidated School District Board on April 22 approved two administrative hires and provided an update on the district’s superintendent search.

Board members moved and approved two personnel appointments presented by district staff: Dean Ivy for the new supervisor of innovation position and Lisa Palmarini as director of communications, a vacancy created when Miss Laws left the district. The board made the approvals contingent on required certifications. Mr. Kramer moved the recommendation and Mr. Bowden seconded; the board approved the motion by voice vote and the motion carried.

The board also announced the status of the superintendent search. A board speaker reported that the district received 50 applicants for the superintendent opening, including 23 current superintendents, nine assistant superintendents, seven candidates with district-office experience and nine principals. Twenty-three applicants were from Pennsylvania and 27 came from 13 other states. The board said interviews will be scheduled and further updates provided as the process continues.

Board members and staff clarified that the new administrative role is a supervisor of innovation (not a director), and that the director of communications hire fills a vacancy. Staff also noted hires are contingent on securing any required professional certifications.

The board closed that portion of the special meeting by welcoming Mr. Ivory to his new role and thanking participants in the hiring process. The special meeting portion then adjourned before the curriculum committee convened.