The Wright City R-II School Board met during closed session Tuesday night, Jan. 21, to determine how it will address the district’s superintendent vacancy.

Superintendent Dr. David Buck announced last week he will be leaving the role at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year, with his final day of work on June 30.

School Board President Austin Jones, whose time in office has included the hiring of four different superintendents, said the board will rely on its traditionally thorough model in replacing Buck.

“In the past we have hired MSBA (Missouri School Board Association) and have received cost estimates from them based upon our enrollment numbers,” said Jones. “We will most likely use a similar process as when we hired Dr. Buck, meaning that any internal candidates will need to apply.” 

Jones said the district will have to move quickly but diligently, hoping to have a candidate in place by the end of April. 

“Given the late date, the timelines will be aggressive in terms of engaging all the group that comprise our community,” said Jones.

The school board voted Jan. 21 to hire MSBA to head its search for a new superintendent.

The board plans to seek feedback from a multitude of individuals and groups when it comes to deciding on candidate qualities and recommendations. 

“The only problem we have is we’re behind the eight ball,” said Jones. “We typically like to start in December or the first of the year. We’re going to be in February and have tight deadlines to get something done by April or May.”

Jones also mentioned the possibility of changes on the school board impacting the process, with multiple seats up for grabs during the April election.

Concerning Buck, Jones said the board has appreciated his enthusiasm for helping the district grow and increase opportunities for students, celebrating those victories along the way.

“He’s a great cheerleader for the district, and we’ll miss that aspect of the job he does,” said Jones. “If you look at his history, he’s always out engaging in things. We’ll miss the academic leadership. Looking at where we were when he started and ended up — kudos to him picking up what Dr. (Chris) Gaines started and taking the next step.”

While he didn’t want to speak for the board as a whole, Jones said he will be seeking a candidate that values the public engagement and a broad view in their approach to academics.

“I’m looking for someone who’s community-oriented and understands academics really well,” said Jones. “One of the pushes we have academically is not only getting kids into college but also considering other routes like trade school. I want someone who values that model.”