QPS will introduce its new superintendent at a special noon meeting on Friday, April 17
Illinois — The search for a new leader of Quincy Public Schools District 172 is over. School Board President Shelley Arns announced Wednesday night that the district will introduce the new superintendent at a special noon meeting on April 17 at district headquarters, 1416 Maine Street, where the official vote will take place.
Arns said it was a relief after they had to extend the search when the initial candidates took issue with the salary. “We had a very successful second round of interviewing,” Arns said. “We’re very happy with our candidate. In fact, we had a very hard time deciding. We felt we had two really great choices in the end.”
When she announced that the search was over during the public meeting, she thanked everyone for their patience and later told Muddy River News what was the deciding factor. “I think what we realized is, we really want to see someone who has more experience in large districts, districts more our size, which was more applicable than superintendent experience,” Arns said. “That’s what set the candidates apart. It was more large-unit district experience than a superintendent position.”
Arns said she could not share the name at this time. She said they have to wait until April 17 because that’s the next time all seven board members could be together. They’re hoping to host a community event in the late afternoon, where they can invite the community and school personnel for a meet-and-greet.
The school board followed the recommendation of Chicago-based search firm Hazard, Young, Attea, and Associates to keep the interview process confidential. HYA also suggested a two-week extension when January’s finalists had higher salary expectations.
Without getting into specifics, Arns said the district was offering more than the $200,000 annual salary former superintendent Todd Pettit was making before he left the district last November.
According to the Large Unit District Association (LUDA), which represents the largest school districts across Illinois, the 50th percentile salary for a superintendent is about $236,000.
Why it matters: The hiring of a new superintendent directly impacts the governance and direction of Quincy Public Schools. This decision reflects the challenges faced in educational leadership, particularly concerning salary negotiations and candidate qualifications.
What to watch:
- The outcome of the official vote on April 17.
- Community reactions during the meet-and-greet event.
- How the new superintendent plans to address the district’s challenges.
Source credibility: Muddy River News is a local news outlet known for its reliable reporting on community issues.
Published: March 26, 2026 1:22 AM
Source: Muddy River News — https://go.noligarchy.us/BBa6oJ