Teamwork, communication, the team working together to make decisions….all

were mentioned by the incoming Superintendent of Schools for USD 475, Dr. Corbin Witt, during a conversation with the Board of Education on Tuesday at the Devin Center.

Witt noted when he begins work he will spend quite awhile building relationships. He said teachers and the community need to be able to trust that when he says he will do something that he will follow through.  The Superintendent plans to attend such things as community events and meetings to get to know people.

He was asked about athletics and where he sees the District in a few years, and whether he was a person who attended events.   Witt stated he likes to attend events, and there need to be extracurricular activities that represent the District well. ” If we’re going to compete we might as well win.”  In addition to sports Witt added the District needs to be sure to support other extracurricular activities as well.

On his dream for USD 475 in five years Witt wants a family like feel that is focused on goals, a community of learners, and that all schools feel they’re supported.

On the subject of security in the schools he stated that’s why a comprehensive facility study is needed to determine what needs to be in place, and where the District needs to improve. He said officials need to see if they have the best security measures in place. Possible ideas mentioned ranged from  having the public enter a school through the office first so they don’t get to students immediately to storm shelters.  Witt also mentioned 475 officials need to make sure they’re working closely with local law enforcement institutions.

The incoming superintendent noted plans need to be in place for incidents so there can be quick reaction.   He also stated that relationships are huge, and the District needs to get students connected to somebody in the building.

On other topics Witt said:

–He will have an open door policy. ” We have to be open and listen.”

–The Board of Education sets goals and policies for the District, and oversees the superintendent to ensure that they happen. The superintendent and staff run the day to day operations.

–An executive team is needed that works together. “We can have strong debates, but when we leave the room we’re one team.”

–On being in the schools Witt said you have to make it a priority.

–And on leisure activities Witt said he reads lots of sports articles on the Internet, doesn’t like reading upsetting things, and is not big into entertainment news. He does like sports, with football being his favorite. Kansas State University ( where he received three degrees ) is his favorite team. “I love going to K-State football games.”

Witt hopes to move to Junction City on June 20th.