Vermilion Chamber sends letter to School Board members

Dear School Board Members:

The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce is excited about the selection of an educational leader for the parish's children. The Chamber recognizes that the selection of a new superintendent is one of the most important decisions the Vermilion Parish School Board will make. The superintendent sets the tone and climate for instructional leadership, student achievement, fiscal responsibility, and communication within the school organization and in the community.
The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce supports the school board in planning and implementing a process to yield an accurate reflection of what is desired by the community in a new superintendent. The Vermilion Chamber would encourage the Vermilion Parish School Board to:
• Approve a process where all three of the candidates will have an opportunity
for an interview.
• Solicit input from parents, school district employees and students on
questions that should be asked.
• Organize an impartial panel to interview the candidates. . Consider acceptance of the panel's recommendation as to who would be the
best candidate for Superintendent of Vermilion Parish Schools.
The community has a vested interest in the outcome of a superintendent search. Additionally, it is in the interest of both the public and the candidate to keep the community well informed. Having the community involved in the superintendent selection process provides support for the Vermilion Parish School Board, leads to more favorable public perceptions, and builds trust. For the candidate, the open process helps to develop a support base for the person entering the new position. Lastly, this open process promotes a positive environment within the business community of our parish.
In closing, the Vermilion Parish School System has had some unparalleled successes! Our students and teachers have excelled in achieving exemplary status in our state. In order to continue those successes, the Vermilion Chamber believes the School Board and the future Superintendent must work together to provide a more comprehensive approach to education. This is especially important as we
embark on what may be unprecedented challenges due to Covid-19. Furthermore, the Chamber believes that the open process creates competition and competition fosters success. We thank you for your service as public officials and we look forward to welcoming the new Superintendent.

Sincerely yours,
Megan Landry-Lalande, President
Lynn Guillory, Executive Director