REINBECK — The Gladbrook-Reinbeck Community School District Board of Education would like to provide an update on the superintendent hiring process. The board recently met with staff at Grundmeyer Leader Services to review the candidate pool and has announced three finalists in its search for the district’s next superintendent.

The position was posted and resulted in a total of 17 candidates, including three from outside the state of Iowa. The pool included 14 male candidates, two female candidates, and one candidate who chose no response. Five of the candidates hold a terminal degree (Ed.D. or Ph.D.), while five others hold specialist/six-year degrees.

The three finalists are Caleb Bonjour, Chad Grandon, and Matthew Leeman.

Bonjour currently serves as superintendent of the Midland CSD, where he has led the development of a five-year district strategic plan focused on facilities and branding, climate and school environment, communication, and teaching and learning. Bonjour is anticipating a doctorate of education degree from Drake University in December of 2023. Previously, he served as PK-2 principal, Title IX coordinator, and statewide voluntary preschool program director in the Maquoketa CSD.

Currently, Grandon serves as superintendent and PK-5 principal of the Collins-Maxwell CSD, where he has helped lead construction projects and focused efforts on community and culture within the district. He holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from Drake University, in addition to superintendent and Area Education Agency (AEA) Administrator coursework from the University of Northern Iowa. Grandon served previously as director of PK-12 special education in the Collins-Maxwell CSD.

As associate superintendent and grades 6-12 curriculum director in the Clear Creek Amana CSD, Leeman has overseen and purchased all district curricular materials and assisted in the input and development of district budgets. He holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and has completed a superintendent certification through the University of Northern Iowa. Prior to his current role, Leeman was the K-5 principal in the Clear Creek Amana CSD.

As a next step, the board and stakeholder interview teams will conduct final interviews with each of the three finalists on Thursday, May 4. The board then plans to discuss the candidates and reach a final decision soon after the formal interviews.

The next superintendent will begin leading the Gladbrook-Reinbeck Community School District effective July 1, 2023.