Natick's LeDuc Shares Views in Run for Grafton Superintendent

Karen LeDuc, a finalist for the Grafton Superintendent of Schools position, said “building relationships’’ is crucial to the job.

LeDuc, the assistant superintendent of schools in Natick, was interviewed by the Grafton School Committee Monday night. She is one of three finalists for the school superintendent post now held by Joseph Connors, who is retiring at the end of the school year.

School Committee members visited the Natick schools recently to find out what her colleagues think and what that system is like. LeDuc spent the day in Grafton and was able to interact with the public at a meet and greet prior to her interview.

Answering questions from committee members, she shared her views on several issues, including:

Her reaction to the Grafton schools: “When I asked [the students] what they liked most about their school, they said their teachers. I think that speaks volumes.’’

On technology in the schools: “Now kids power down when they come to school,’’ she said, referring to their electronic devices. “We need them to be able to power up.’’  But she does not support “technology for technology’s sake. The core is the academics’’ and how they can be enhanced through technology, she said.

On budgets, especially in tough times: “You start with the nugget,’’ she said, the core programs and ideas that are most crucial. These mainstays are funded, and other programs are looked at with an eye to doing them more economically.

Her first-year priority: “Looking, listening and reflecting,’’ she said. By recognizing how things work and the needs of students and staff, she can then determine the best moves to make.

On the importance of communication: The schools need to be celebrated, she said, and their achievements must be shared with the community.

Committee members were hesitant to share their specific views on LeDuc until all interviews were completed. But chairman Teri Turgeon said she was impressed with her “calm, mature’’ manner that reflects “quiet leadership.’’

The committee next interviews Grafton assistant superintendent of schools Lucille Boutiette tomorrow and Shrewsbury assistant superintendent of schools James Cummings Wednesday.

A final decision is expected Wednesday.