Bend-La Pine forums, online survey for new supt.

The search for a new superintendent for Bend-La Pine Schools is underway, with a series of forums next week and an online survey.

The school board is hosting a series of public forums next week, during which community members are invited to share their thoughts about qualities they would like to see in a new superintendent, as well as the issues they feel are most important to Bend-La Pine Schools.

Current Superintendent Ron Wilkinson announced his retirement at the end of October and is slated to retire at the end of June 2015.

“We have had a thoughtful, dedicated leader for the past six years, who helped the district make great strides,” said board Co-Chair Nori Juba. “The board intends to find a leader who can continue on that path towards developing world-class schools. We look forward to hearing insights and feedback from the public during this critical process.”

Forum details:
• Monday, Dec. 8, 4 to 6 p.m., Sky View Middle School
• Tuesday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bend Park & Recreation District Main Office
• Wednesday, Dec. 10, 5 to 7 p.m., Bend Senior High School
• Thursday, Dec. 11, 3 to 5 p.m. at Three Rivers School and 4 to 6 p.m. at La Pine High School

The Bend-La Pine Schools Board of Directors is working with a professional search consultant during this process. Superintendent finalists are expected to be announced in mid-February. The board expects to vote to approve a new superintendent by the end of February.

Individuals are also invited to share thoughts through an online survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SuperintendentSearch2014