Susana Cordova Is Only Finalist For DPS Superintendent

DENVER, CO – By Melanie Asmar, Chalkbeat Colorado. A high-ranking administrator who began her career as a teacher in Denver is the sole finalist to lead Denver Public Schools. Susana Cordova, who has served as deputy superintendent for the past two years, will more than likely be the next superintendent.

The seven-member Denver school board made the announcement late Thursday afternoon after a four-month national search, but the decision was not unanimous.

Parents, teachers, and community members repeatedly called for the board to name multiple finalists. But board President Anne Rowe explained that two of the three candidates who got a second interview ended up withdrawing their candidacy, one because of confidentiality concerns and another for personal reasons.

Board member Carrie Olson said she could not support moving forward with a single finalist, even as she noted many reasons why Cordova is qualified. Board member Jennifer Bacon joined her in voting no. The other five board members voted yes.

The board plans to hold several public meetings with Cordova before making its final decision, which is scheduled to take place Dec. 17. Multiple board members said this needs to be an interview process, not an acceptance process.

READ MORE in The Colorado Independent

Image: Susana Cordova addresses teachers at an early literacy training session in July 2018. (Photo by Melanie Asmar, Chalkbeat Colorado)