School board approves Steve Seid as interim superintendent
Even though Steve Seid is the new interim superintendent for Clarke Community School District, he's more than familiar with the district.
Seid, 52, of Des Moines was the middle-school principal for Clarke from 2005 to 2007. He then spent five years as the middle-school principal in Saydel.
"I have found it to be as welcoming as it was when I was a principal," Seid said.
Contract
During a special meeting Dec. 31, Clarke Community School Board offered Seid a contract on a per diem (per day) basis of $375 including benefits. His contract will most likely continue to June 30.
Seid is replacing former Clarke Superintendent Ned Cox who took early administrator retirement. Cox's last day in the district was Dec. 31.
Seid's first day in the district was Jan. 2.
"Steve looks like a real good candidate to get us through this interim process," said Gerard Linskens, school-board president.
Linskens said there was a "push for time" with finding an interim superintendent in one month, and Seid seemed to be the best person for the job.
The school board interviewed two candidates for the position.
"Seid has a long history of being in the management positions in the educational system," Linskens said.
SAM Project
Seid left Saydel after the 2011-12 school year. He said he has spent the past few months collecting data on school administrators across the country on the amount of time they spend on management tasks versus instructional tasks. This is through an organization called the National SAM (School, Administrator, Manager) Innovation Project.
Seid was a SAM principal during his five years at Saydel and presented at the organization's national conference.
"The more involved the principal is in the instructional task, the higher achievement students with attain," Seid said.
Seid received his superintendent endorsement from Drake University.
Through his experiences, Seid said he has a strong understanding of the focus of student successes through their academic and extracurricular activities. He also appreciates the community support and knowing the commitment of the staff.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to lead the district in this capacity," Seid said.
Goals
As for Seid's goals during his time as interim superintendent, he said they were "pretty simple."
The goals include focusing on instruction and assessment, assessing students on what they're being taught, ensuring the school district is fiscally sound, providing a safe climate for staff and students and building a positive relationship with staff, students and the community.
As to the question of Seid being interested in the full-time superintendent position, Seid said he is confident he will be able to bring leadership to the district as an interim, but it is up to the school board on selecting the full-time position.
However, Seid said his goal is to lead the district and potentially become a viable candidate when that time arrives.
"I'm looking forward to getting acquainted or reacquainted to the community, goals and direction of the Clarke District," Seid said. "I'm just very happy to have this opportunity."
