Kentucky School Advocate
November 2023

KSBA’s dedicated Superintendent Search consultants share a total of 96 years – almost a century – in public education as educators and administrators and, together, have facilitated 100 searches and counting. Meet our seasoned professionals who work closely with and for school boards as they grapple with arguably their most important decision: the selection of a chief administrator.

Learn how KSBA can empower your board team next time you are faced with a superintendent vacancy. Visit ksba.org/supersearch.aspx or contact [email protected].
   

Sutton

Quin Sutton

Bio: 29 years as an educator and administrator in Kentucky public schools. Began his education career as an agriculture teacher. Later served as athletic director, assistant principal, principal, director of federal programs, director of pupil personnel and assistant superintendent. Served as superintendent for multiple districts.

Number of searches: 12

Search region: Western Ky.

Words of wisdom: “One big challenge that districts and superintendent candidates face is keeping the applicant pool confidential. Through KSBA’s search service, all applications are submitted electronically to our office in Frankfort. Because of the confidential nature of our process, I feel more candidates are likely to apply, giving the school board a broader applicant pool from which to choose a qualified superintendent.”

Feedback: “I have been involved in a couple superintendent searches as a board member and the assistance we got from KSBA was a turnkey model covering all governing laws, policies and a step-by-step process ready for us in a timely manner to make it a very stressless path for hiring!” – Rajiv Johar, board member, Muhlenberg County

Martin

Don Martin

Bio: 35 years as an educator and administrator in Kentucky public schools. Began his education career as a high school social studies teacher. Later served as coach, instructional supervisor, food service director, transportation director, building and grounds director and principal. Served as superintendent and interim superintendent for multiple districts, training director for the Kentucky Center for School Safety and facility planning consultant.

Number of searches: 34

Search region: Northern Ky.

Words of wisdom: “I advise boards of education to keep an open mind on filling the superintendent position. Regardless of if the successful applicant comes from within the district or from outside the district, the new superintendent will benefit immensely from the credibility of an open, objective search process.”

Feedback: “I have had the opportunity to serve on two KSBA Superintendent Search Committees for my district and greatly enjoyed each experience. Mr. Martin led each of ours, providing clear and concise communication as well as great organization to help us understand the search process. KSBA’s role in leading our searches facilitated great conversation among our members and helped to develop a vision for what our district needed in a leader.” – William Yager, teacher, Carroll County Schools

Eaton

Tim Eaton

Bio: 32 years as an educator and administrator in Kentucky public schools. Began his education career as an elementary physical education teacher. Later served as assistant principal, principal, transportation director and assistant superintendent. Served a decade as superintendent. Named 2004 Outstanding Superintendent by the Kentucky Educational Development Cooperative.

Number of searches: 54

Search region: Southeast/Southcentral Ky.

Words of wisdom: “In broad terms, I always talk to boards about finding the right fit for their particular district. Strong communication skills are a must along with a passion for kids.”

Feedback: “Selecting the right superintendent is a pivotal decision and that is why we chose to utilize KSBA’S Superintendent Consulting service. Tim Eaton was exemplary in his commitment to making sure that we identified, vetted and presented top-tier candidates who could lead with vision, dedication and expertise. His comprehensive approach, commitment to diversity and outstanding communication skills aided in making sure that we secured the best leadership for our students and our community.” – Carolee Lloyd, administrative assistant to the superintendent, Adair County Schools