The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District announced Monday that they have opened their search for a new Superintendent of Schools to replace John O’Brien, whose retirement was accepted by the Board of Education in July.

Applications will be accepted through December 2020, with a selection planned for Feb. 1. The new superintendent would start on July 1, 2021.

McPherson & Jacobson LLC Executive Recruitment and Development is facilitating the search by helping identify and screen candidates.

According to the announcement of vacancy brochure, desired characteristics of a new superintendent as determined by the Board of Education include a “fiscally sound instructional leader,” an “optimistic, inclusive, collaborative leader” and a “leader with superior communication skills and a positive vocal advocate for the District, students and staff.”

“The candidate must have the background, skills, and abilities essential for excellence in educational leadership,” the brochure says. “The board recognizes that selecting a superintendent is one of the most important decisions it will make.”

The application can be accessed on McPherson & Jacobson LLC’s website at https://macnjake.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx.

Reach reporter Ashlyn O’Hara at ashlyn.ohara@peninsulaclarion.com.