Dear WEA Members,
I am writing to share serious concerns about the district’s current process for selecting our next superintendent.
In most school districts, hiring a superintendent is a deliberate and transparent process that takes time and includes meaningful stakeholder input. Districts typically form a search committee that includes school board members, staff representatives, parents, and community members. Many also hire an executive search firm with expertise in educational leadership to ensure a broad, competitive candidate pool and a professionally managed process. Just as importantly, districts often spend four to six months on this work, allowing time for surveys, public forums, and opportunities for teachers, administrators, parents, and community members to meet and provide feedback on candidates.
Unfortunately, none of these best practices appear to be part of Widefield’s current approach. The administration has put forward an unusually accelerated timeline, with little transparency about how candidates were identified or evaluated. There has been no broad stakeholder input, no community forums, and no opportunity for staff or families to engage with finalists. The process appears to be opaque and driven solely by district administration. Additionally, all three candidates being presented to the Board are internal candidates or are from Widefield, with no external applicants included.
As educators who are deeply invested in the future of our district, I believe this process falls short of the openness, inclusivity, and rigor that such an important decision deserves. The selection of a superintendent will shape the direction of Widefield for years to come, and it is critical that this decision be made with broad input and public trust.
I encourage you to consider reaching out to members of the Board of Education and respectfully requesting that they appoint an interim superintendent at this time. This would allow the district to pause, reset, and engage in a legitimate, transparent, and inclusive search process for a permanent superintendent — one that reflects the voices of educators, families, and the wider community.
Thank you for your continued professionalism, advocacy, and commitment to our students and schools. Your voice matters, and thoughtful engagement now can help ensure a stronger future for Widefield.
In solidarity,
Dustin Flesher
President of Widefield Education Association
Secretary of Pikes Peak Education Association
mr.flesher@gmail.com
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