Hook named permanent Colfax-Mingo superintendent

COLFAX — The search for the Colfax-Mingo Community Schools superintendent has concluded with the board of education announcing Wednesday night that the position has been given to current C-M interim superintendent Tracy Hook.

According to board secretary Deb Hodgson, Hook will receive a $130,000 salary plus benefits for the 2016-17 school year.

“I’m certainly pleased with the school and the community to have faith in me as their new superintendent,” Hook said. “I’ve been doing the job for four months, and this is a good feeling. As I reflect on it, it’s a good day.”

Hired by the board in July, Hook has been serving as the interim in replacement of former superintendent Marty Lucas.

Hook had a 33-year career in education before retiring from an 11-year stint as high school principal in the Saydel Community School District and one year as its interim superintendent.

Since becoming the acting superintendent for C-M he has emphasized communication and unity on the school board by utilizing a series of committees consisted of board members.

Hook also is responsible for prioritizing a district early retirement package, which will allow the school more time to find quality replacements for the exiting teachers. The board approved the item in a split vote in October.

Wednesday’s meeting was the sixth closed session the board has held following a full week of interviews with the candidates Nov. 16-19.

Three other individuals were vying for the superintendent position including Centerville Schools Superintendent Anthony Ryan, joint-Pekin Community School and Tri-County Community School District Superintendent Dennis Phelps, and Iowa Department of Education Deputy Director Jeff Berger.

Contact Alex Olp at aolp@jaspercountytribune.com