Greenville Co. Schools Begin Forums For Superintendent Search

Two members of the consultant group charged with helping Grenville County Schools find the successor to Superintendent Dr. Phinnize Fisher met with the media and general public on Wednesday night at Mauldin High School.

After an introduction from Board Member Lisa Wells, Dr. William C. Symons of BWP Associates solicited the audience for characteristics and skill sets that should be sought for the new leader of South Carolina’s largest school district.

In addition to participating at the , those so interested can participate online by clicking HERE. Online participation will continue through January 10.

Among the qualities mentioned by participants: 

• An understanding of the classroom environment
• Strong communication skills
• Command of business issues
• Knowledge of school security and security-related topics
• An innovative thinker

Symons said that in BWP’s early conversations with district employees, the very qualities that Dr. Fisher possesses were ones that many said they would like to see in her successor. Symons, who is a former superintendent himself, said of Fisher, ”She’s very impressive and among the finest superintendents I’ve met.”

Fisher is not playing a role in the selection process, as is the case with most people in her position, according to Symons.

So far, there have been 10 applicants. Symons said he expected there to ultimately be between 75-100, distributed across the country, but clustered in the Southeast.

Symons said economic factors could play a role in the number of applicants as candidates might have a harder time selling homes if they are moving to the area from out of state. But, Symons is confident that the district is attractive enough on all fronts to appeal to a top-flight candidate.

Interviews will begin in March and then be narrowed down to between five and eight candidates. From there, a group of three finalists will be chosen and their names will be made public. Interviews with the final candidates will be day-long affairs with the goal of having a superintendent chosen by the end of March.