Steamboat Springs School District Moves Forward in Superintendent Search

The Steamboat Springs School District has taken a significant step in its search for a new superintendent by releasing a stakeholder feedback report. This report, produced by the search firm McPherson & Jacobson, was published this month and reflects input gathered from various community members during the initial phases of the search process.

Following the announcement of Celine Wicks’ retirement, effective at the end of the 2025-26 school year, the district aims to appoint a new superintendent by July 1, 2026. The stakeholder feedback report summarizes responses collected through online surveys and in-person focus groups held in January and early February 2023. The surveys were open from January 20 to February 5, allowing ample opportunity for engagement.

Over 300 responses were recorded from a diverse group, including parents, teachers, staff, students, and community members. The feedback highlighted several strengths of the district, including its robust academic programs and a high level of community engagement. At the same time, stakeholders voiced important priorities for the incoming superintendent.

Among the key areas for improvement identified were enhancing student mental health support, increasing rigor in the curriculum, and addressing teacher retention issues amid growth pressures and rising costs of living. The community expressed a strong desire for a leader who embodies collaboration and empathy, particularly someone with experience in rural education settings. Additionally, stakeholders emphasized the importance of innovation and a commitment to nonpartisan decision-making.

The full report is available for review at tinyurl.com/mr225d9z, providing a comprehensive overview of the feedback collected during this critical phase of the superintendent search. As the Steamboat Springs School District moves forward, the insights from this report will play an essential role in guiding the selection of a leader who meets the community’s expectations and needs.