At least a dozen candidates have already applied for the Columbia Public Schools (CPS) superintendent position.
CPS spokeswoman Michelle Baumstark briefed Columbia-area elected officials and business leaders during Wednesday’s monthly Columbia Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI) board meeting. Ms. Baumstark addressed the leadership change with the departure of former superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood, noting that Dr. Chris Belcher is CPS’ interim superintendent through the remainder of the school year. Ms. Baumstark tells the REDI board that there have been 12 to 15 applications so far, adding that CPS is a very desirable place.
Columbia Public Schools has hired the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) to support the search for a new superintendent. Ms. Baumstark encourages the community to fill out a search survey about the superintendent search. You have until December 29 and can find a link to the survey here.
CPS is taking applications for superintendent until January 5. CPS plans formal interviews and district tours with finalists during the week of February 10.
