26 hopefuls so far for District 15 school chief

The search continues for a new superintendent in Palatine Township Elementary District 15.

So far, there are 26 applicants for the position, which is expected to be filled by February. The deadline for applications is Monday.

Current Superintendent Robert McKanna will retire at the end of the school year. He has served since 2003.

The search is being conducted by Libertyville-based BWP and Assocs. The consultants will interview and finalize the candidates later this month.

By early January, the District 15 school board should start interviews. The goal is to have a new leader chosen by February or March. The new hire will start July 1.

"We are pretty much on target," school board President Tim Millar said. "We are in the first wave of hiring, which gives us a better selection of candidates."

McKanna's base salary this year is $218,487. A salary range for the district's new leader has not yet been determined, Millar said.

After meeting with focus groups, the district developed a set of guidelines for a new superintendent. They include strong leadership skills, advocacy for diversity and long-term connections to the community.

Such groups also made a list of major issues facing the District 15 community. Among them are:

• Financial issues with the failed referendum and aging facilities.

• Transportation issues.

• Diversity and changing demographics.

• Board and teacher union relations.