Interim superintendent in place at Alisal Union School District

An interim superintendent has been appointed for the Alisal Union School District.

Jim Koenig will start his appointment July 1 and will stay in the role through June 30, 2020, or until a permanent superintendent is hired.

“We’re very fortunate to have on staff someone as committed to the fiscal responsibility of the Alisal Union School District as Mr. Jim Koenig. He has been with us for over 11 years, and in that time he has shown his outstanding leadership qualities and dedication to our students. His strong work ethic, his professionalism and commitment to the Alisal have earned him the respect of his colleagues, staff and board. Without a doubt, he will ensure this transition is smooth and we look forward to working with him as we seek a permanent superintendent,” said Fernando Mercado, the board president.

Koenig’s interim role replaces Dr. Hctor Rico, who chose not to renew his contract set to expire June 30.

The Alisal Union School District says Koenig served with them for more than 11 years as associate superintendent of business services.

They say before he came to the district, he served as chief business official of San Benito High School District in Hollister.

“Alisal is a super community and our district schools are the focus of that community,” Koenig said, “With the board of trustees’ support, I look forward to serving the district’s 9,000 students, teachers and other employees, parents and stakeholders in East Salinas.”

The district said Friday that the trustees also discussed the search process for a permanent superintendent and reviewed a sample request for proposals.

Administrators are scheduled to issue a request for proposals July 5 for firms interested in conducting a superintendent search.