Superintendent Search

July 6, 2026: Search Update

Dear South Jefferson Central School District Community,

The Board of Education is continuing its search for the district’s next Superintendent of Schools. This is one of the most important responsibilities of any Board of Education, and we are approaching the process thoughtfully and carefully, with the future of our students, staff, families, and community at the center.

First, we want to thank Christina Chamberlain for her leadership and service to the district as superintendent. We also welcome Tom Turck as interim superintendent and look forward to working together as the district moves into its next chapter.

After much discussion and deliberation, the Board has decided to move forward with a closed superintendent search. We strongly value transparency and will continue to keep the community updated throughout the process. At the same time, a closed search allows candidate names to remain confidential until an appointment is made, which will help attract a larger and stronger candidate pool. As shared during the community presentation, community input remains an important part of a closed search and is gathered earlier in the process to help shape the candidate profile.

The Board believes this approach gives the district the best opportunity to identify the strongest possible leader. We believe South Jefferson is an outstanding district, and we want the very best candidate to help lead it forward.

Community feedback is an essential part of this process. The Board is asking students, staff, families, and community members to complete the superintendent search survey found here, which will be available July 6 through July 24 on the district website. If you prefer to complete a paper version of the survey, copies are available for pickup at the district office. You can find the survey on our website on our Superintendent Search Landing Page.

The survey results will help the Board identify the district’s strengths, needs, priorities, and desired leadership qualities for the next superintendent. The Board will meet on July 29 to review the results. A summary of the feedback will be shared publicly and posted on the district website. This information will help shape the candidate profile and the application materials used in the search.

In addition to the survey, the district is planning to hold stakeholder group meetings with the search consultant in the fall. These meetings will provide another opportunity to gather input as the process continues. The community survey information will help the Board shape the candidate profile, while the stakeholder group feedback will help the district gain additional insight into the qualities, experiences, and leadership characteristics needed in the next superintendent. Together, this feedback will help inform the Board as it considers which candidate is best prepared
to lead South Jefferson forward and into the future.

We are deliberately taking the time needed to conduct a strong and thoughtful search. We are confident in the district’s current team and grateful for the continued support of our school community during this process.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to share your voice.

Sincerely,
The South Jefferson Central School District Board of Education

Full Survey Linked Here

-------------------------------------------------------

June 4, 2026: Search Update

The SJCSD BOE appointed Thomas Turck to serve as Interim Superintendent following Christina Chamberlain’s departure in August. 

The Board engaged in a thoughtful process focused on identifying a leader who could provide stability, experience, and a strong understanding of school district leadership during this transition period. Board members were particularly impressed by Mr. Turck’s experience as a retired superintendent from the Homer Central School District, a district similar in size and demographics to South Jefferson. In addition, he is currently completing a one-year interim superintendent role at the Moravia Central School District in the Finger Lakes region.

The Board also valued his familiarity with the North Country and our region. As a graduate of Thousand Islands Central School District, he understands the character, values, and strengths of rural school communities and the importance of strong relationships with students, staff, families, and the broader community.