Superintendent Search
"The superintendent plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of our community. We aim to find an individual who not only possesses the necessary skills and qualifications but also embodies the values that make our district exceptional."
Welcome Superintendent Nicholas Russo
The Board of Education of the Rochester Community School District voted on Monday, April 8, to approve the superintendent contract for Nicholas Russo.
Mr. Russo will begin his term as superintendent on Monday, July 1, 2024.
“As an experienced teacher, principal and executive administrator, Mr. Russo has a demonstrated track record of excellence. Through a steadfast commitment to serving all RCS students, a passionate approach to building relationships, an intentional focus on business operations, and an emphasis on our strategic plan, we are confident that Mr. Russo can lead our district to new heights,” said Michelle Bueltel, board president.
Mr. Russo brings over 26 years of educational leadership experience to Rochester Community Schools. Prior positions include serving as the assistant superintendent of human resources at Walled Lake Consolidated Schools, principal of Conant Elementary in the Bloomfield Hills School District, and principal of Beacon Tree and Jack Harvey Elementary in the Utica Community School District.
Mr. Russo earned an educational specialist degree in executive leadership from the University of Michigan, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Wayne State University and a bachelor’s degree in education from Michigan State University. He is a graduate of the Michigan Leadership Institute’s SUPES Academy and holds a Michigan Central Office certificate, among others.
Mr. Russo states that his leadership approach “prioritizes collaboration, inclusivity and responsiveness to the needs of students and the community,” and he is committed to “fostering environments where both students and staff can thrive, advocating strongly for inclusion and equal access for all.”
"I am deeply honored and excited to lead a teaching and learning community that values tradition, student achievement and excellence. Working alongside dedicated Rochester Community School District teachers, administrators, staff, parents, caregivers and community partners is an incredible opportunity,” said Russo. “Together, we can build strong relationships that lay the foundation for student success.”
Search firm presentations and interviews
Superintendent candidate impression - links to surveys
Community members are invited to provide feedback following the April 1, 2024, candidate forum with the three superintendent finalists. Click on the link or follow the QR code to access the impression form. Please complete the survey three times, one for each candidate. The survey will close on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
Candidate selection and interviews, round two
During a special meeting on Tuesday, March 19, the board of education narrowed the interview process to three candidates, Dr. Stephen Bigelow, Nicholas Russo, and Dr. Carrie Wozniak. Please click on the candidate's name to view their 90-day plan. Dr. Wozniak also provided an additional letter with links to information.
Candidate questions from community members
A community forum with the superintendent finalists is scheduled to be held on Monday, April 1, 2024, at 4 p.m. at Adams High School. The forum question and answer session will be moderated by Ray and Associates with all finalists being asked the same questions to ensure consistency.
Community members are invited to submit one question to be asked of the candidates using the links below. Due to time constraints, questions may be combined and all questions may not be asked. The deadline for suggesting a question is 5p.m. EST on Sunday, March 24, 2024.
Suggested Finalist Question Survey (English): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CM5MXTP
Suggested Finalist Question Survey (Spanish): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B9CZGWY
Suggested Finalist Question Survey (Korean): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B9582P2
Suggested Finalist Question Survey (Portuguese): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BYGJVB8
Suggested Finalist Question Survey (Chinese): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCXV9GC
Suggested Finalist Question Survey (Telugu): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BJD9G9J
Candidate selection and interviews, round one
Candidate biographies
Essential leadership qualities
- Promotes a positive and professional environment that includes mutual trust and respect among faculty, staff, administrators and the board
- Is willing to listen to input, but is a decision maker
- Is a strong communicator in speaking, listening and writing
- Possesses the leadership skills, knowledge and sensitivity required to respond to the opportunities and challenges presented by a diverse student body and community
- Is strongly committed to a “student centered” philosophy in all decisions
- Has a strong moral compass that is rooted in justice and equality
- Has classroom experience in a K-12 setting
- Has experience with effective management and planning practices that will benefit the long-term financial health of the district
- Is able to delegate and oversee the work of staff (i.e. leading by example) and appropriately maintain accountability
- Is able to build consensus and commitment among individuals and groups
- Possesses the ability to enhance student performance, especially in identifying and narrowing the gaps in student achievement and opportunity
Overview
On Nov. 6, 2023, during a special meeting, the RCS Board of Education selected Ray & Associates to assist with the process of searching for the district's next superintendent.
The process for searching for a new superintendent includes opportunities for stakeholder engagement, which is followed by a position posting, selection of applicants, interviews, and ultimately the selection of the best person to lead Rochester Community Schools into the future.
The goal will be to begin the 2024-25 school year with long-term leadership in place at the superintendent level.
Search firm presentations and interviews
Superintendent search process and timeline
- Stage 1 Board input and preparation by Dec. 18
- Stage 2 Profile development and process by Jan. 16
- Stage 3 Recruiting and screening by Feb. 18
- Stage 4 Candidate presentation by March 19
- Stage 5 Selection of finalist and future planning