EVERETT — Interviews will begin this week for the Northshore School District’s superintendent search.

The district’s third superintendent search since 2016 kicked off in February, shortly after Superintendent Michael Tolley announced his retirement Jan. 29. He had served in the position since July 2023.

The school board hopes to announce a new superintendent by mid-May, according to the district website.

Tolley started as assistant superintendent in 2019 then began as interim superintendent in October 2022. The district named him permanent superintendent in March 2023. Tolley’s last day will be June 30.

From March 14 to 31, more than 2,000 people responded to an online survey rating the importance of proposed qualifications for the position. The board used the results to draft a profile for the position. The district saw an increase of 829 respondents since the last search in 2022.

The survey determined the top 12 characteristics community members want in the next superintendent. The top three were: “willing to listen to input, but is a decision maker,” “has leadership skills to respond to opportunities/challenges of diverse student body and community,” and “promotes a positive and professional environment with mutual trust/respect among district employees and Board.”

In late March, the district-hired superintendent search firm, Ray & Associates, hosted meetings and focus groups with local stakeholders.

Applications for the position closed April 20. The school board will meet in executive session May 7, 8 and 13 to interview the candidates and evaluate their qualifications.

On May 13, the board will host a public town hall with the final candidates from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Northshore Concert Hall at Inglemoor High School. Attendees will hear from the finalists and have the opportunity to provide feedback. The district will also live stream the town hall and provide an online feedback form.

Shortly after the town hall, the school board will deliberate and select the final candidate.

Jenna Peterson: 425-339-3486; jenna.peterson@heraldnet.com; X: @jennarpetersonn.