The search for a new Saucon Valley School District superintendent to replace Dr. Monica McHale-Small–who is retiring–is well underway, according to an update from search consultant Dr. Charlene Brennan, Executive Director of Colonial Intermediate Unit 20.

In a May 17 letter from Brennan posted on the district’s website, she said a total of 16 job applications were received from potential candidates.

“Eight of the applicants were selected to participate in Round 1 interviews that occurred the first week of May,” she said. “The (school) board is now proceeding to the next step in the process, which is to narrow the candidates down further.”

“Round 2 interviews are being scheduled now and will be completed by the end of May,” she continued. “Shortly thereafter, the board will select the finalists, who will meet with the community and school staff in mid-June.”

Brennan said this timeline is subject to change, but stressed that “the public will be given sufficient notice when the date has been finalized.”

Another update will be issued at the beginning of June.

McHale-Small is leaving the district this summer after three at-times tumultuous years at the helm.

During her tenure, a new six-year teachers contract which expires June 30, 2018 was approved.

Laying the groundwork for the next contract negotiations will likely be a priority for the next superintendent, as will be working with a school board that will have three new members on it as of December.

Another challenge for the new superintendent will be a federal civil rights lawsuit recently filed against the district by the parents of two students alleging a failure to deal with systemic racism in the schools.