Description
Search led by
Zeal Education Group
View the leadership profile and application instructions:
www.zeal-ed.com/southportland
Superintendent of Schools
South Portland School Department
South Portland, Maine
Start Date: July 1, 2026
About the South Portland Board of Education
The South Portland Board of Education is a dedicated, student centered governing body committed to providing high quality public education for all learners in a diverse and growing coastal community. The Board works collaboratively with district leadership to set a clear vision, establish sound policy, and ensure fiscal responsibility while remaining deeply attentive to community values and student outcomes. Board members value transparency, respectful dialogue, and thoughtful decision making, and they approach their work with a strong sense of stewardship for the district’s future.
Why Lead the South Portland School Department
The South Portland School Department presents a compelling leadership opportunity for an experienced, forward thinking superintendent who is energized by innovation, community engagement, and continuous improvement. Serving a vibrant and diverse student population, the district is known for its commitment to academic excellence, inclusive practices, and preparing students for success in an increasingly complex world. The next superintendent will join a supportive community that values education, collaboration, and progress, and will have the opportunity to shape the next chapter of the district’s growth while building strong partnerships with staff, families, and the broader South Portland community.
Leadership Profile
The South Portland School Department has asked Zeal Education Group to conduct a comprehensive engagement with all stakeholders throughout the South Portland community. Once complete, we will share the Leadership Profile. All serious applicants should review the Leadership Profile in consideration of this role.
Key Dates
- January 14, 2026 — Announcement of Vacancy
- January 26-30, 2026 — Community Engagement
- February 24, 2026 — Presentation of Leadership Profile to School Committee
- March 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST — Application Deadline
- April 8, 2026 — Presentation of State of Candidates
- April 17, 2026 — In Person Semi-Finalist Interviews with the School Committee
- April 27, 2026 — Finalist Interviews
- May 11, 2026 — Anticipated Appointment of New Superintendent
- July 1, 2026 — Start Date of New Superintendent
Application Process
This will be a confidential search process. Interested candidates must submit the following materials in one PDF:
- Completed application form
- Cover letter detailing your fit for this position and alignment with the Leadership Profile
- Current résumé or curriculum vitae
- Three current letters of recommendation
- Proof of, or eligibility for state-specific Superintendent Certification
- Unofficial copy of educational transcripts
The School Board has established a minimum salary of no less than $165,000.
All applicants must visit www.zeal-ed.com/southportland to review the Leadership Profile and complete an application
Please email the completed application packet to southportland@zeal-ed.com no later than March 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
Questions
All inquiries will be treated with full confidentiality and discretion.
Please contact the Zeal search team at southportland@zeal-ed.com.
You may view our other vacancies or register your candidacy at https://www.zeal-ed.com/searches-candidates
Requirements
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