After superintendent Mike Grove’s retirement announcement in early April due to chronic health concerns, the district board has begun searching for his replacement. The board expects to announce a successor in June.

Making this transition more difficult for the district is that Jane Marashian, executive administrative assistant to the superintendent for the past 17 years, also announced her retirement due to health issues. She has worked for several superintendents in the district. 

Yareli D’Amico, who has been the special education/student services administrative assistant at the district level since February 2020, stepped in as Marashian’s temporary replacement on May 6.

The board is utilizing the services of Carolyn McKennan and Diane Siri from Illinois-based search firm Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates to help find the new superintendent. 

Additionally, students, parents, staff and other community members have been asked to fill out a form on the district website suggesting characteristics and skills they are looking for in the next superintendent.

“This is the similar transparent and inclusive hiring process the board used four years ago hiring Dr. Grove,” board president Katherine Tseng said.