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The state’s largest school system has narrowed its search for a new superintendent to two finalists, the district announced Thursday.
Eric Moore is currently senior advisor to the superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools and Ryan Scallon is an assistant superintendent in the School District of Philadelphia, according to a Portland Board of Public Education press release.
“While we wish there were more gender diversity, these candidates emerged at the top of our rigorous selection process,” Sarah Lentz, board chairwoman, said in a statement. “We believe their strengths, experiences, and commitment to equity are solid and impressive.”
The candidates will be in Portland May 17 and 18 for interviews and to tour the district. Interviews with students, parents and community members will be live streamed on May 17 and archived for later viewing until May 20, according to the district.
The board hopes to make a final decision by May 30, with an anticipated start date of July 1.
Former Superintendent Xavier Botana announced his resignation in December following payroll issues that resulted in school staff being paid late and, in some cases, not at all.
In the interim, Melea Nalli and Aaron Townsend have served as co-superintendents.