Gilbert Residents Want Info on Superintendent Candidates

Today the Arizona Republic published an article stating that Gilbert residents wanted to know more about the four candidates for the Gilbert Public Schools Superintendent position that is up for grabs. Education is always important in community issues, but GPS holds one of the highest ranking school districts in the entire state. It is one of the major things that have kept our community property values high, while attracting more and more families.

I knew they were searching for a new superintendent, but had no idea that they had narrowed down the field to four candidates. All of which have over 15 years experience in the district. This is why the district has cited that they have kept everything hush, hush. When all is said and done, only one will be picked and the other three will still have to work together. No mudslinging everyone.

One would think we could trust grown, educated adults to mind their manners. However, as a realist I know that absolutely nothing gets as heated as debates about local education. Ask any school board member or PTA president.

The four candidates include Dave Allison, Gayle Blanchard, Ken James and Barb VeNard. Out of the four, the only one I know is Gayle Blanchard; she's my son's principal. I've only met her once when I toured the school, but I was very impressed with her balance of laidbackness with complete organization and total respect for the students. She's running one of the top 10 school's in the state. I think that really counts for something.

I have no clue about the rest. I don't feel too bad about that as I only have a kindergartner and am not truly entrenched in the education politics yet.

Here's hoping the oh-so-secret selection committee can make the right decision. Frankly I'm glad I'm not in their shoes.

UPDATE 2/17/2008: This is from the Gilbert Public Schools site, "GPS Governing Board Appoints New Superintendent
On February 12, 2008 the GPS Governing Board unanimously voted to appoint Dr. Dave Allison as new Superintendent for Gilbert Public Schools for the 2008-2009 school year. Dr. Allison has served the district for more than 15 years in leadership roles including most recently Associate Superintendent.

No more info is given.