The Alliance School continues to work on finding a successor to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dan Hoesing, who will leave the district December 31.

The firm hired to assist with the search, McPherson and Jacobson of Omaha, has completed the first two phases of the search process, which include work with the school board and community to identify criteria for a new superintendent.

The top criteria, as determined by the school board, are:

— Student focused and committed to providing a quality education for the student through a variety of methods including distance learning.

— Professionally well-rounded with leadership expertise and experience in finance, curriculum, instruction, assessment, evaluation, and supervision of staff.

— Open and accessible; and will establish and maintain quality relationships with the board, administrators, teachers, staff and community.

— Progressive and forward thinking and will be visible in the schools and community.

— Capable of getting the job done through a strong leadership style.

The deadline for submitting applications will be January 14, 2013. After that date, the consultants will begin reviewing the completed files and evaluating the candidates and conducting extensive background checks.

On January 28, the consultants will meet with the board of education to review candidates and assist the board as its selects final candidates to be interview.

It is the goal to have a new superintendent for the Alliance Public Schools hired by February 11.