The Pella School Board is set to convene on Monday, January 11, with the search for a new district superintendent at the top of its agenda. The board will enter a closed session to review semifinalist candidates for the position, a critical step in replacing retiring Superintendent Greg Ebeling.
In addition to the leadership transition, the board will take action on key financial and programmatic items, including the annual At-Risk Plan and its associated funding. The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in the Pella High School library.
Key Takeaways
- The Pella School Board will hold a closed session to review superintendent semifinalists on Monday.
- The search is to replace Superintendent Greg Ebeling, who is retiring.
- The agenda includes votes on the 2026-27 At-Risk Plan and related dropout prevention funding.
- The meeting marks a pivotal moment in determining the future leadership and direction of the Pella Community School District.
Navigating a Leadership Transition
The primary focus of Monday's meeting will be the ongoing search for a new superintendent. The board will receive a comprehensive overview of the candidate pool before moving into a closed session to deliberate on the semifinalists. This confidential discussion is a standard procedure in high-level hiring processes to protect the privacy of applicants who may currently be employed in other districts.
The selection of a new superintendent is one of the most significant responsibilities of a school board. The chosen leader will guide the district's educational vision, manage its budget, and oversee all administrative and academic operations. The process to replace Greg Ebeling, who has served the district for years, involves multiple stages of vetting, interviews, and community feedback.
While the names of the semifinalists will not be made public following the closed session, this meeting will narrow the field of candidates who will advance to the next round of interviews. The board's goal is to identify a leader who can build on the district's successes while navigating future challenges in public education.
The Role of a Superintendent
A school superintendent acts as the chief executive officer of a school district. Their responsibilities are extensive and include implementing the school board's vision, managing daily operations, hiring and evaluating staff, developing the annual budget, and serving as the public face of the district to the community, parents, and state officials.
Focus on At-Risk Student Support
Beyond the superintendent search, the board is scheduled to take action on two important items related to student support services. The first is the approval of the district's At-Risk Plan for the 2026-27 academic year. This plan outlines the specific strategies and resources the district will use to support students who are at a higher risk of academic failure or dropping out of school.
These plans typically include programs such as:
- Alternative learning environments
- Counseling and mentoring services
- Credit recovery options
- Targeted academic interventions
The effectiveness of these programs is crucial for ensuring equitable educational outcomes for all students. The board's approval signifies a commitment to providing the necessary framework to help every student succeed.
Securing Funds for Dropout Prevention
Directly linked to the At-Risk Plan is a vote on the modified supplemental amount for At-Risk dropout prevention funds. This is a formal request to the state's School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) to authorize specific funding allocated for these programs.
Securing this funding is not merely a procedural step; it is essential for the financial health of the district's support systems. Without these dedicated funds, the programs outlined in the At-Risk Plan would be difficult, if not impossible, to implement effectively.
The Importance of Dropout Prevention
According to national education statistics, students who drop out of high school are less likely to be employed and earn significantly less over their lifetimes than their peers who graduate. Comprehensive dropout prevention programs are a key investment in both individual student futures and the economic well-being of the community.
The Path Forward for Pella Schools
The decisions made at Monday's meeting will have lasting implications for the Pella Community School District. The selection of a new superintendent will set the tone for leadership and policy for the foreseeable future, influencing everything from curriculum development to community engagement.
"Choosing a new leader is a defining moment for any school district. It's about finding someone with the right vision, experience, and commitment to carry our community's values forward into the next chapter of education."
Simultaneously, the board's action on the At-Risk Plan and its funding demonstrates a continued focus on the foundational mission of public education: supporting every child. By dedicating resources to students who need them most, the district reinforces its commitment to equity and academic achievement.
As the board moves through the superintendent selection process, the community will be watching closely. The upcoming stages will likely involve public forums or meet-and-greet opportunities with the finalists, allowing parents, teachers, and residents to play a role in shaping the future of their schools.
