LAKE STEVENS — The Lake Stevens School Board didn’t need to look too far for a successor to Superintendent Dave Burgess.
Assistant superintendent Amy Beth Cook will replace Burgess when he retires in the summer of 2011.
The board approved a transition plan Wednesday night that sets in motion the leadership change over the next 14 months.
Cook has worked for the district for 28 years in a variety of capacities. She has been a speech pathologist, teacher, assistant principal, principal, executive director and assistant superintendent.
The board opted not to do a large-scale superintendent search.
“This is the best way to continue our success,” said board member David Iseminger.
In recent years, several former Lake Stevens administrators have been named superintendents in other districts, which indicates there is a strong local pool of talent, board members said.
“We can find the best candidates within our own ranks,” said John Boerger, another school board member.
Burgess said he believes the school board made a wise decision.
Board president Mari Taylor said Cook is “a proven instructional leader.”
Burgess is in his sixth year as superintendent of the district of 7,800 students. Burgess, whose salary is $221,052, announced his retirement earlier this month.
The board and Cook won’t negotiate her new contract until next year.
Cook said she is thankful for the opportunity.
“I’m very excited to be able to continue in this district in my new role,” she said. “I’m very committed to this district.”
Eric Stevick: 425-339-3446, stevick@heraldnet.com.
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