The search for a new superintendent has come to an end with the appointment of Stuart (Jeff) Swensson. The school board plans to appoint him at a special meeting on Dec. 17 at 7 p.m.

BWP & Associates, an outside consulting firm, assisted the board with the extensive search process, which began last summer. According to Ron Barnes, consultant with the firm, there were about 30 applications submitted from 13 different states.

From the 30 applicants, six individuals were chosen for an interview. The applicants were then narrowed down to three, and experienced a more extensive interview process that involved a tour of the community and schools and a public meet-and-greet session.

After this process, Swensson was chosen as the new superintendent. He has already been a part of the Carmel Clay School system, serving as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment.

Current Superintendent Barb Underwood plans to retire at the end of December. She said she is proud to have been a superintendent of this school system. She said, “I really think we have a culture here where we can always try to get better. This is a great place to be superintendent. Despite the challenges, I’ll take away a great sense of pride.” By Sarah Sheafer <[email protected]>