One quizzical attendee asked if the sole purpose of the meeting was only to identify “adjectives” to be used as qualifications for the next superintendent. Tim answered to the affirmative. The same citizen then queried Tim as to how one might identify such characteristics as honesty, trustworthiness and integrity, etc., from a resume.
Another pessimistic questioner asked Tim if a new superintendent would be allowed to bring in his or her own entourage, at the county’s expense, a la Pat Russo.
To those two questions and many others, Tim Lea gave his pat answer that “those decisions would be made solely by the board.”
The overwhelming message delivered to the search committee by those attending the forum was “hire local.” Penny Hayes, chairwoman of the school board said, as quoted in the April 28 issue of The Pilot, said, “that most probably would not be on our list.” Somewhat ironic since that would be one of the few widely suggested characteristics, identified by those in attendance, that could actually be determined from a resume!
Are we skeptical? Absolutely! Is it the fault of Tim Lea and his 46-person search committee? Absolutely not. They are all fine Moore County citizens giving up their valuable time in service to our community. I thank them all sincerely.
Is our widely held suspicion that this “search committee” process is in an act of hopeless futility, the result of our lack of confidence in Penny Hayes and equal distrust for those board members that voted to hire HWA? Hmmm!
Ed Kennedy
Pinehurst
