OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City School District and Board of Education officially launched their search for a new district superintendent, it was announced Wednesday, Aug. 4
This process began after Dr. Kathleen Taylor’s retirement announcement in April. Taylor’s final day with the district was Aug. 1.
In order to proceed with their expeditious pursuit to find the best candidate, the Ocean City Board of Education sought out professional search consultant services, according to a press released issued by the district. They conducted numerous interviews back in early June with various executive search firms that had submitted proposals to assist with planning and execution. Strategic Educational Advantage (SEA) Consultants presented to be the best option and met the needs of the search committee.
“We have been doing our due diligence to ensure all the proper channels are being utilized to find the best candidate for this position,” school board member Jacqueline McAlister said in the release. “It’s incredibly important that we pick someone who is going to put the needs of our students and school community first.”
Dr. Thomas Baruffi will be the interim superintendent. Baruffi served numerous superintendent roles throughout his educational career, including superintendent of Linwood Public Schools for roughly eight years.
“We’re excited to welcome Dr. Baruffi,” board member Cecilia Gallelli-Keyes said in the release. “It’s a relief that we have someone as capable and qualified as Dr. Baruffi is to take on this temporary role, but it’s still important that we continue to focus on finding our permanent replacement.”
SEA Consultants have been working closely with search committee members to expand on the recruitment process which includes actively seeking candidates, focus groups, open house forums, and an online community survey, according to district officials. The survey is planned to be released prior to the start of fall, and will help develop the profile of the next superintendent by outlining their desired characteristics. The survey and job listing will be running concurrently. Updates will continue to be posted via SwiftK-12 messaging, social media, as well as the OCSD website. Additional information can be found on the district website, oceancityschools.org.