Goodrich- With news of Superintendent Kimberly Hart’s dismissal still reverberating through the community, a new face has come to occupy the office’if only temporarily.
Larry Allen, retired superintendent of Mt. Morris Consolidated School District, has been tapped to act as interim superintendent while the board plans to begin an official search Aug. 6. Mt. Morris currently lists their enrollment at 3,700 students; Goodrich has approximately 2,185. Additionally, Allen recently acted as interim superintendent at LakeVille Community School District.
(The administration and board) ‘are here for the best education we can provide for the community and students,? said Allen.
The board began speaking to Allen about possibly acting as interim superintendent a few weeks ago, Allen said.
Allen received his bachelor of science, master of arts and educational specialist degree from Central Michigan University. He has a Michigan superintendent’s certification and secondary permanent teaching certification. Additionally, Allen received an honorary doctorate from Davenport University in 2000 and currently serves on the GenNet board of directors.
With issues of failed communication often cited within the district, Allen said he hopes to bridge those gaps that currently exist.
‘Communication is extremely important in successful educational environments,? said Allen. ‘We strive for collaborative efforts. I look at the school district as being an extension of the community.?
Allen said he hopes to ease the switch from Hart to the new superintendent in the district.
‘I’m here to help with the transition for the new superintendent (the board) will be hiring to maintain a positive learning atmosphere,? said Allen. He added he is not planning on being a candidate for the position of superintendent, and is strictly here for the transitional period.
Allen’s philosophy regarding the job is one of accountability from a performance based and financial standpoint. When it comes to those issues within a district, ‘No one likes surprises,? said Allen. For that reason, the interim superintendent said he will strive for consistency.
And though his stay in the district is meant to be a temporary one, Allen said he is glad to be here.
‘I look forward to working with (the community),? said Allen, ‘and am excited to be part of the team.?