Leadership Profile Report

Durango School District 9-R

November 27, 2007

Executive Summary

This report summarizes the findings of the Leadership Profile Assessment (LPA) conducted by Hazard, Young, Attea and Associates, Ltd. (HYA) for the Board of Education of the Durango School District 9-R. The data contained herein were obtained from reviewing over 127 Leadership Profile Assessment (LPA) forms and meeting with approximately 157 stakeholders identified by the Board in either individual or focus group settings on October 29,30 and 31, 2007. Because some respondents completed both a form and attended a focus group, it is estimated that the responses contained herein can be attributed to about 225 individuals. The questionnaire, interviews and focus groups were structured to gather data to assist the Board in determining the primary characteristics it might seek in its next superintendent of schools. Through this process, the consultants attempted to identify the personal and professional characteristics desired in the new superintendent as well as the skill sets necessary to maintain what stakeholders valued and to address current and emerging issues which the District may be facing in the future.

Durango School District 9R has many positive attributes as recognized by its stakeholders.  The location of Durango with its natural beauty, recreational, and cultural opportunities makes it one of the most attractive places to live and work in Colorado.  Furthermore, the district is fortunate to be located in a diverse community with citizens, families, and staff members who want the school system to be successful.  People recognize the value of a strong public education system and want to be involved in activities related to the district.

Academic performance is relatively strong and teachers are consistently mentioned as professional, caring, and committed to the success of their students.  It was reported that the district is able to attract many applicants for most teaching positions.  In addition, the relationship with the teachers’ association is positive and there has been a commitment to keep class size as small as possible considering the financial limitations of the school system.

Constituents frequently mentioned the high academic achievement of students as one of the strengths of the district. Most stakeholders feel that there are excellent opportunities for college bound students and that the relationship with Fort Lewis College is a positive asset for the district. Additionally, there is a wide range of student support programs that are well-staffed.

The school district is consistently commended for having excellent school building facilities and people appreciate that the fiscal operation of the system has been well-managed.  The quality and availability of technology to students and staff members are also believed to be adequate but in need of additional funding support.

One of the most significant factors mentioned by all stakeholders is the wide range of community and government partnerships that are available to support the needs of youth and families in the area.  These agencies provide assistance to the school district as well as to the diverse population of the area.

The primary needs or concerns shared with the consultants revolved around five clearly defined areas: renewal of the level of trust between the superintendent, Board of Education and the community; a clarification of roles between the Board of Education and the superintendent; the need for long range strategic planning; high school reform; and, low teacher salaries.  In addition, as demographics of the community have changed, there are diverse opinions as to how the district should address the needs of all students.  It will be necessary for the Board of Education to fully understand their responsibilities under Policy Governance and delegate appropriate authority to the superintendent so that s/he can spend most of her/his time in the community and be visible in the schools listening to the needs of all the stakeholders.

Additional needs or concerns expressed by stakeholders included: teachers and administrators are overwhelmed with the number of programs and reporting activities that are required; the Professional Learning Communities program needs to continue with an evaluation process that includes input from all those affected; the need to improve communication between central office and the school sites; too many federal and state mandates; and, the appropriate level of site based decision making.

What does the school community seek in terms of characteristics of the new superintendent?

The stakeholders of the district would like to have someone who is a visionary leader with educational experience, one who has outstanding interpersonal skills, is collaborative, is passionate about children, and accessible to all members of the staff and community.  S/he must have the ability to work effectively with a new Board of Education that needs support, coaching, and leadership.  In addition, this individual must demonstrate a joy and interest in working with the community and in developing relationships with governmental, civic, and volunteer organizations to build collaborative relationships.  This individual should be a strong diplomatic leader with a willingness to make difficult decisions and accept a high degree of accountability for the results.

Durango School District 9-R desires to find the ideal person to assume the role of superintendent.  Realistically, there is no individual who will meet every expectation of the school community.  The challenge that the Board of Education and HYA have is to find an individual who possesses many of the desired characteristics and the leadership skills necessary to build upon the existing strengths of the District and successfully address the challenges the District will face in the future.

Respectfully submitted. 

Richard O’Connell
Ellen Bartlett
Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates, Ltd.