HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 school board Monday received a report from Kansas Association of School Boards’ staff on what they heard from the public and district employees on important qualities for the next superintendent.

KASB, which is assisting the district with a search for a new superintendent, held a dozen meetings on Nov. 8 and Nov. 26 with various district staff groups and community groups. Three meetings were held with the general public. Additionally, KASB posted an online survey to gather input on superintendent qualities.

During those meetings with 103 individuals, KASB learned the community and staff are interested in a leader who is good at communication, is collaborative with groups and individuals both inside and outside the district, has good personal qualities, and is a big thinker.

The face-to-face meetings also found that the staff and community members are happy with district facilities and programs for students.

The groups said it would be most critical for the next superintendent to be a dynamic, engaging and innovative individual.

The survey drew 410 responses: 44 percent came from community members, 42 percent from staff, and nearly 14 percent were from students. The online survey paralleled the face-to-face meeting data, Gary Sechrist, KASB leadership services field specialist, said. Sechrist was joined in the presentation by Craig Wilford, who is also a leadership services field specialist.