Feedback from parents, staff and the wider community was gathered through input sessions and a survey to help shape the criteria to select a superintendent.

The board’s partnership with the professional search firm also included focus groups with school staff, faculty, school organization leaders and 7th- and 8th-grade students to sample a wide variety of perspectives. 

Community feedback was incorporated to develop a leadership profile that guided the recruitment process. 

Board members understood that selecting a superintendent is their most important role. They appreciated the community for trusting and electing them to carry out this responsibility. Board members kept local input at the forefront throughout this process, taking a thorough, deliberative and contemplative approach.

Community members, teachers, staff, students and organizations connected to our school shared clear priorities for the next SBS leader, including having a leader who is based in the building, accessible, and engaged in instruction and culture day-to-day. 

Stakeholders also identified the following qualities as essential for the next Chief School Administrator: 

• Student-centered 

• Visible and engaged 

• Instructionally strong 

• Strong communicator 

• Collaborative and politically savvy 

• Decisive and principled

See the full CSA Candidate Profile here.

Shrewsbury Borough School named Rick Cohen as the district’s next superintendent-principal, confirming his appointment during a special board meeting on April 15. Cohen will assume leadership of the district on July 1.  

Cohen will succeed Brent MacConnell, who is retiring after serving as superintendent and principal of the district since 2008.