Interim Superintendent of Schools

Job Description

Job Title: Interim Superintendent of Schools

Effective Date: Immediately

Class: Non Union - Administrator - Exempt - 1.0 FTE

Supervision Received: Works under the policy guidance and administrative direction of the Westerly School Committee. Performance is evaluated by the School Committee based on established district goals, board policies, and overall operational leadership.

Supervision Exercised: Exercises direct administrative supervision over district leadership, including the Assistant Superintendent and District Directors (Finance, Special Education, Technology, Human Resources, Facilities, Transportation), and School Principals. Holds ultimate executive authority and indirect supervision over all instructional, administrative, operational, and support staff across the district.

SUCCESSFUL INTERIM CANDIDATE PROFILE

The Westerly School Committee seeks an experienced interim leader to provide steady, skilled administrative oversight during a period of transition. The ideal candidate will maintain organizational momentum, ensure fiscal and operational continuity, foster open communication, and support ongoing district initiatives.

Interim Candidate Focus Areas

Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate significant experience in executive leadership and transition management across four key areas:

Transitional Communication, Community Engagement, and Relationship Building
Educational Leadership and Operational Continuity
Support for Student Social-Emotional Well-Being
Budgetary Maintenance and Ongoing Facility/Technology Initiatives

Indicators of Skill

1. Transitional Communication, Community Engagement, and Relationship Building

• Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills to maintain trust and transparency across staff, labor units, municipal leaders, and the community.
  
• Serves as an approachable, accessible, and visible presence in schools and community events.
  
• Maintains clear, frequent communication channels with the School Committee, Town Council, administration, and civic groups.
  
• Respects local district culture and honors community traditions while providing a steadying presence.

2. Educational Leadership and Operational Continuity

• Sustains academic expectations and continuous improvement efforts without disrupting ongoing district programs.
  
• Provides consistent supervision and support for principals, central office administrators, and instructional staff.
  
• Navigates district systems effectively, ensuring continued support for special education, inclusion, and school safety protocols.
  
• Applies a calm, collaborative problem-solving approach to resolve operational issues and mitigate potential controversies.

3. Support for Student Social-Emotional Needs

• Maintains existing mental health, behavioral, and social-emotional support frameworks for students and families.
  
• Demonstrates sensitivity to socio-economic factors, student stress, and diverse learner needs.
  
• Supports a safe, positive school environment focused on student well-being and responsibility.

4. Maintenance of Budget and Ongoing Initiatives

• Ensures sound fiscal management by overseeing current budget implementation and monitoring town, state, and federal funding streams.
  
• Effectively communicates budgetary matters with the School Committee, municipal officials, and the public.
  
• Maintains progress on existing school facility redesign plans and technology updates to keep district projects moving forward on schedule.