FROM STAFF REPORTS

The Hoover Board of Education is preparing to make a decision that will affect thousands of students, parents and stakeholders in Hoover City Schools.

The decision will likely be among the most important they will make as board members – Hiring a new superintendent.

Thousands of Shelby County residents attend Hoover schools and will be affected by this decision. Greystone Elementary, Riverchase Elementary, Berry Middle and Spain Park High are all located in Shelby County.

In a recent survey by Niche, a company that offers rankings and statistics on cities and schools nationwide, Hoover City Schools was named the third best school system in Alabama, while Spain Park High was ranked the fourth best high school.

However, the school system has faced serious challenges over the last few years, including financial hardships and a very public battle over bus services.

Schools across the state faced slashed funds from the state, which Hoover has to balance with a growing student body.

That makes the BOE’s decision even more important. In recent meetings, the Hoover board has taken important steps in the search for a new leader.

The Hoover BOE has gathered community feedback about the desired qualities of the new superintendent. It also recently established key items to be included in the superintendent’s job description, including a negotiable minimum salary of $187,000, as well as a compensation package and incentives.

The minimum salary is competitive with surrounding school districts and should help attract quality applicants to the position.

We’re trying to exceed expectations, I don’t know if you can put a value on that,” BOE Vice President Derrick Murphy said during a recent meeting.

We encourage parents, students and other stakeholders to stay involved in this process and communicate their wants and needs to the Hoover Board of Education.

We look forward to meeting the new superintendent of Hoover City Schools and watching that person lead the school system to even greater achievements.