Input From Stakeholders Determines Desired Characteristics for Next Chief Administrator

After seeking input from our board members, staff, school district leaders via focus groups, interviews and an online survey, the Board of Directors of Heartland AEA seeks a strong educational leader who possesses the following characteristics:

• A leader who is committed to high standards for leadership, operations, and student learning
• An excellent communicator who understands that listening is an essential component of communicating
• A team builder and facilitator
• Builds partnerships
• Demonstrates a high degree of fairness, who is ethical, and possesses unquestionable integrity
• Fosters trust through both communication and personal commitment
• Has a proven track record of success in all leadership positions
• Has a strong presence and involvement in local, statewide, and federal matters highlighting and recognizing agency strengths and representing a Kid’s First orientation
• Is collaborative, decisive, and supportive of an inclusive management style
• Is open to new ideas and supportive of innovation
• Is politically savvy and will work with legislators on behalf of education
• Possesses financial savvy; understands school finances
• Possesses the ability to build strong relationships with all superintendents, legislators, and Agency staff
• Recruits, evaluates, and retains, outstanding staff members
• Relationship builder
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the special education with regard to varied leadership experiences and accomplishments
• Skilled systems thinker who is committed to growth and innovation
• Passionate about learning and has demonstrated a firm belief that all children can learn
• Values use of data in the decision-making process focusing on student outcomes
• Is or is able to be certified in the State of Iowa as a Superintendent/AEA Chief Administrator

Visit the agency’s website for the full report from search consultants Hazard, Young, Attea and Associates.