Two search groups presented highlights of their services to the Vicksburg Warren School District Board of Trustees Thursday, a step toward hiring a superintendent to replace Dr. James Price, who retires June 30.

Representatives from Educational CEO Search of Atlanta and the Mississippi School Boards Association told trustees that having a new head of the district on the job July 1 is possible, though the time is short.

The costs of their services were not disclosed because the trustees might hear from others.

MSBA Executive Director Dr. Michael Waldrop told trustees they might consider an interim superintendent.

“This is probably the most important decision you will make,” Waldrop said. “Don’t let a timeline make you make a hasty decision and get someone in here that doesn’t work out.” The state association has a database of contacts throughout and beyond Mississippi that would be willing and able to fill in until a more thorough search can take place, he told trustees.

Board members were in agreement that their first choice is to hire a permanent replacement by July 1.

Jim Kimmitt, Educational CEO Search founder and partner told the board it’s a “tough timeline,” but his firm could “have candidates in front of you to interview” within four weeks. Prospective candidates would be thoroughly screened, he said, in background, degrees and certifications and for qualities such as integrity, open-mindedness, communication skills and financial management abilities.

Waldrop and his MSBA colleague Dr. Harold Fisher said the state organization also conducts candidate background checks and has extensive state, regional and national contacts.

“I don’t think there’s a superintendent in the state that I don’t know and don’t know their abilities,” Waldrop said. “Also, with your out-of-state candidates, I have a network with every one of the other 49 executive directors — and we share.”

Both Kimmitt and Fisher also said they would hold meetings with personnel as well as community members. The state association is currently assisting Yazoo City and Meridian school districts in superintendent searches and has a history with other districts in the state. CEO Search has conducted superintendent searches in Georgia, Illinois and Colorado.

Board member Joe Loviza was out of state because of a death in his family, but will be provided with a videotape of the presentations, board president Zelmarine Murphy said.

A third search firm, Omaha-based McPherson and Jacobson, has also been invited to present its search process to the board. Its director, Dr. Thomas Jacobson, planned to attend Thursday’s meeting but had a medical emergency. Murphy said she will try to reschedule no later than the April 29 meeting.

Price announced his retirement March 30. Meeting after, the five trustees decided to hire a search firm. His annual salary was $140,000.

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Contact Pamela Hitchins at phitchins@vicksburgpost.com