Four candidates interviewed at Centre
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
At least 19 applications were received for the position of K-12 administrator at Centre Unified School District #397, Lost Springs.
The KASB selection committee narrowed the field to four. Each of the four visited the district during the past week.
Brian Spencer
Brian Spencer was a football coach and instructor for 12 years at Flint Hills USD at Rosalia. After obtaining certification as an administrator, he went to Southern Cloud County USD, where for the past six years he has served as principal and transportation director, and more recently, superintendent.
Spencer's district includes the towns of Miltonvale and Glasco, 24 miles apart. He said he would like to work in a district that's not so spread out.
"You are to be commended for successfully combining so many communities into one," he said.
The genial, easygoing man said he understands and enjoys small schools. He expressed some concern over the responsibility of being a principal to two school buildings but agreed it is "something reasonable to explore."
"I'm a pretty hands-off guy," he told school personnel. "It's results that are important."
Spencer and his wife, Angela, have five children ranging from kindergarten age to high school freshman.
Bob Kiplinger
Bob Kiplinger has been the principal at Council Grove High School for five years. After spending 29 years in education, he said he is ready to take the next step of becoming a superintendent.
He said he was impressed with the long tenure of many Centre personnel. He hasn't had much experience with young children but feels strongly that the early grades are important.
"If you don't address the learning at that level, you'll lose out," he said.
Kiplinger said he's willing to spend as much time as necessary to get things done. He said he likes to be visible to the students as much as time allows. He also sees himself as a good listener.
He stressed good communication and fair and consistent discipline are keys to a good rapport between faculty and students.
He said he's willing to try new things to make the district successful in the QPA, No Child Left Behind initiatives.
He is somewhat concerned about his availability considering the wide range of responsibilities he will have.
Kiplinger is single and has a grown son. He said he runs one mile every day.
Darrel Kellerman
Darrel Kellerman has been an educator for 32 years. Currently, he is superintendent of Ellinwood School District.
Kellerman said he and his wife, Mary Anna, want to be closer to eastern Kansas, where their two grown children and other family members reside.
Kellerman said he isn't familiar with being a lone district administrator, but he is not scared to tackle it.
"It will take cooperation," he said.
He acknowledged that he has not worked directly with elementary school children. He said he will rely on teachers for assistance in discipline and other matters.
He said it's important that student groups and their sponsors have a good relationship.
James Frank
James Frank has been an educator for 32 years. He was a principal at Ness City when he was offered the position of school superintendent. He continues to teach vocal music and band classes.
Frank is 55 years old, has been married 35 years, and has two married children.
He said he spends as little time in his office as possible. "I like to be around kids," he said. He has been a K-12 principal for 12 years
Frank recently was involved in the consolidation of two school districts.
Frank was honest about his plans. He is retiring but wants to continue in education for seven more years. If he gets the job, his wife will remain at Ness City to continue her career.
The school board is expected to make its selection Monday at its regular monthly meeting in the library at Centre Elementary School, Lost Springs.
