Superintendent Search
The Southwest Vermont Supervisory Union (SVSU) is pleased to announce the selection of its next superintendent: Tim Payne.
With the selection of Mr. Payne, the SVSU Board of Directors concluded the Superintendent Search, which began following Superintendent James R. Culkeen’s retirement announcement in late October of 2024.
In making their final decision, the Board took into consideration the feedback of the community, who were heavily engaged in the search process. Feedback from staff, students, families, and community members suggested that a candidate who was community-focused and student-centered would be important for whoever was selected as the next Superintendent; Mr. Payne aligns with those wishes, bringing over 25 years of experience in education and a commitment to serve this community. Mr. Payne currently serves as the principal of Mt. Anthony Union High School.
Updates
- March 19, 2025: The SVSU names Tim Payne as the new Superintendent of Schools
- March 7, 2025: Names and details about the three finalists and final interviews are announced
- February 26, 2025: Three finalists candidates are recommended to the SVSU School Board
- February 25, 2025: Superintendent Search Committee meets to conclude screening process
- February 12, 2025: Superintendent Search Committee conducts initial round of interviews
- January 22, 2025: Search update provided to SVSU Board
- January 20, 2025: Superintendent Search Committee meets for it's first meeting
- December 18, 2024: A community survey was issued to gather desired skills and attributes for the next Superintendent.
- December 12, 2024: An email went out to staff and community members informing them of the role of the Superintendent Search Committee, and calling for volunteers.
- December 11, 2024: The job posting went live.
- December 4, 2024: The first Superintendent Search Committee meeting takes place with the help of the VSBA consultant.
- November 6, 2024: The SVSU School Board decides contract with the Vermont School Board Association (VSBA) to assist with the Superintendent search.
- October 30, 2024: Superintendent James R. Culkeen announces his retirement from the SVSU, effective June 30, 2025.
Committee Members
Christohper Murphy - Board Chair, SVUESD
Stephanie Mulligan - Board Chair, MAU
Ray Mullineaux - Board Chair, North Bennington
Nicol Whalen - Board Chair, ASD
James Gallen - Teacher, MAUMS
Erin Morandi - Support Staff, MAUHS
Renee Gordon - Central Office Administrator
Bethany Lorge - Principal, Pownal Elementary
Rachel Munoz - Parent/Community Member
Shirah Sternberg - Parent/Community Member
Stephanie Mulligan - Board Chair, MAU
Ray Mullineaux - Board Chair, North Bennington
Nicol Whalen - Board Chair, ASD
James Gallen - Teacher, MAUMS
Erin Morandi - Support Staff, MAUHS
Renee Gordon - Central Office Administrator
Bethany Lorge - Principal, Pownal Elementary
Rachel Munoz - Parent/Community Member
Shirah Sternberg - Parent/Community Member
If you or someone you know needs an accessible or translated version of any information on this webpage, please contact the SVSU Central Office:
