Schottle to stay at helm of schools

Superintendent Darlene Schottle will be staying at Kalispell Public Schools, at least for the foreseeable future.

Schottle was one of the top three candidates for the superintendent position in Eugene, Ore. But school board officials announced Wednesday they have chosen Sheldon Berman of Louisville, Ky., to replace George Russell, who is retiring at the end of the school year, according to the Eugene School District’s website.

“I always think there’s some disappointment when you apply for a job and don’t get it,” Schottle said. “But I’m fortunate to live in a community I enjoy and to work with staff I’ve held in very high regard.”

Schottle was contacted about the Eugene position by a consultant and search firm. She said she was intrigued by the chance to work on issues the Eugene School District had identified as important, including increasing student achievement.

That has been one of her focuses during her tenure in Kalispell and was a focus in Reno, Nev., where Schottle worked as superintendent before moving to Montana.

There was also opportunity for innovation in the district, Schottle said. Eugene faces a $24 million shortfall in next year’s budget and will close four elementary schools to save money.

Schottle is in her eighth year as Kalispell schools’ superintendent.

The Eugene job was the second superintendent’s position she has applied for in three years. In 2008, she was one of two finalists for the top administrative position in Spokane. Schottle withdrew her name from consideration before the Spokane school board made a decision.

Reporter Kristi Albertson may be reached at 758-4438 or at kalbertson@dailyinterlake.com.