The search for a permanent superintendent may be broadened after Española Public Schools board members raised questions June 10 about whether enough is being done to attract candidates.
During a special board meeting Board President Ruben Archuleta announced that interim superintendent Dr. Karen Griego-Sanchez agreed to remain in the position until a permanent superintendent is selected.
The announcement came before board members entered executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the superintendent search. No action was taken following the executive session.
During discussion prior to the executive session, one board member questioned whether the superintendent vacancy was being advertised only within New Mexico or if the district was also seeking applicants from outside the state. So far, the opening is only being advertised on NM Reap, a website where teaching jobs are announced, and the EPS website. District officials indicated they would discuss potentially expanding recruitment efforts to reach a broader pool of candidates.
The conversation comes as EPS continues to navigate another leadership transition. Griego-Sanchez was appointed interim superintendent in April following the departure of former superintendent Carl Marano. Her willingness to remain in the position provides the district with short-term stability while the search process continues.
The issue of superintendent turnover has become increasingly familiar for EPS. Over the past several years, the district has experienced multiple superintendent transitions, including both permanent and interim positions. Wednesday’s discussion suggested board members are focused on ensuring the district attracts a qualified and competitive candidate pool. Expanding recruitment beyond state boundaries could increase the number of applicants and provide additional options for the board to consider.
Board members have not yet publicly announced a timeline for selecting a permanent superintendent, nor have they indicated whether a search firm will be utilized during the recruitment process.
For now, Griego-Sanchez will remain at the helm while the board continues searching. As of June 11, a job listing for an assistant superintendent at EPS was also posted to the website and NM Reap.
The next regular meeting of the EPS Board of Education is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday (6/18) at the Educational Services Center.