Eighteen residents took part in a forum Wednesday night at the Hurgin Municipal Center to contribute their thoughts on what they want to see in a new school superintendent.
Former superintendents James Ritchie and Thomas Jokubaitis of the search firm, Cooperative Educational Services, led the discussion last night to find what the residents felt were the most important strengths they want to see in a new superintendent.
Bethel has an on line survey, and will hold another forum with students and faculty as the district looks for a superintendent to replace Kevin Smith, who has accepted the same post for Wilton schools.
Ritchie said that he would expect to receive between 10 and 20 applicants for the position.
Other districts conducting superintendent searches include Naugatuck, Region 14, and Ridgefield.
The Board of Education will review the applications, conduct interviews and narrow the search further before choosing a new school leader for the next school year.