Joanne Williams
Editor
(Courtesy photo – Robert Vaught)
Olivet Schools has chosen Robert Vaught as its newest superintendent of schools.
Vaught, who was once a principal and teacher in the Marshall Schools, was chosen over Derek Lounds, Eaton Rapids High School principal. Both were finalists from a field of 13.
In a March 26 written statement Greg O’Dell, president of the Olivet School Board, wrote, “The Olivet Board of Education worked with Dr. Rod Green a consultant with MASB to assist us in the Superintendent search. To begin with, we set out a process and timeline so everyone would be on the same page. There were multiple opportunities for stakeholder input and feedback. We received over 200 survey results. From these different inputs, a Superintendent criteria was formed. This guided what characteristics would be critical in Olivet’s next leader.
“After reviewing applications, the Board chose six candidates for first round interviews. Some of the characteristics that we were looking for were, visibility in the community, strong communication, approachable, integrity, and experience to name a few.
After a full day of interviews, the Board narrowed the candidates down to two to return for second round interviews. The day of second interviews, the candidates took tours of the District and took part in an open house session with any community member that wanted to come to the school and meet them. All along the way there were opportunities for community members to give the Board feedback about their thoughts on each candidate.
That evening second round interviews took place. After interviews the Board reviewed public input forms and had lengthy discussions. It came down to who fit the criteria set forth by all stakeholders in the beginning.”
The Board voted unanimously to begin contract negotiations with Robert Vaught. O’Dell wrote that “the intent is to approve the contract at the Boards next meeting, April 13, and for Vaught to begin sometime in June.
O’Dell continued, “The Board would like to thank all of our staff, community members, parents and students in assisting us in this process. We couldn’t have done it without them. We would also like to thank Dr. Green for his guidance. It’s always a good day to be an Eagle and we will continue to soar into the future.”
Vaught’s personal statement on his resume reads, “Student-centered, board-focused superintendent with extensive experience leading Michigan public school districts through instructional improvement, fiscal stewardship, labor relations, facilities modernization, and community engagement.
His career has taken him to DeTour Village and Drummond Island, Battle Creek, Marshall, as well as South Haven and Greenville. He is a veteran of the U.S. Navy.
Vaught will take over the superintendent’s position from interim Superintendent Dan Gilbertson.
