Trustees debate wording in superintendent evaluation policy; chair to 'facilitate' process under consideration

Trustees reviewed proposed revisions to policy CBI (evaluation of the superintendent) at the May 26 work session, with administration presenting language intended to codify current practices and logistics.

Dr. Franklin told the board the revisions reflect procedures already used: the board and superintendent adopt an evaluation format; evaluation goals are mutually agreed; and the chair or the chair’s designate has historically managed the logistics for collecting and summarizing written evaluations. Trustee Dr. Elen Scott and others expressed concern that the draft placed too much responsibility with the chair, arguing the full board should determine the process. Several trustees proposed changing the verb "determine" to "facilitate" or adding phrasing that the chair acts "with board approval." Dr. Franklin and the attorney had recommended codifying the established practice but administration agreed to edit the language to preserve board input.

Trustees asked for revised wording to be drafted and circulated; some suggested approving the evaluation instrument and allowing a designated point person to manage logistical communications. No final policy vote was taken; trustees directed staff to redraft the paragraph to reflect facilitation by the chair or designate with board oversight.