The RNESU Board is excited to announce that Rene Sanchez will serve as Superintendent of Schools effective January 1, 2025.

Mr. Sanchez has been serving as the Interim Superintendent since July 1, 2024 with the understanding that the Board would open the search for a permanent superintendent in the fall.

The RNESU Board began planning their search in September with the goal to complete the process by February.  The Board named a 13 member search committee, to include the 6 RNESU Board members and 7 employees representing administrators, teachers, and support staff.  The Search Committee met in November and reviewed stakeholder input received as part of the last superintendent search process held in the spring of 2024.  

The committee identified the following list of ideal characteristics, traits and experiences to be sought in the next leader of RNESU to be used as the criteria for evaluating applicants.  

• Strong Supervision and Evaluation

• Superintendent Leadership Experience

• Ability to Work within Constraints

• “Thick Skin”

• Understanding of Educational Issues in Vermont - including Education Landscape and Financial Issues

• Good Social Skills, Communication and Collaboration with All Stakeholders

• Present in Schools/Community

• Advocate for Flexible Pathways

• Ability to Build Trust

• Transparency and Responsiveness to all Communities

• Ability to Navigate Disagreements in the Community

• Embrace the Diversity

• Profound Understanding of Special Education and the Laws that Govern it

Mr. Sanchez quickly rose to the top as the finalist of several applicants. Mr. Sanchez’s work as Interim Superintendent has focused on elevating student achievement, fostering stronger community connections, and ensuring our schools effectively address the diverse needs of students, staff, and the broader community. His leadership reflects a commitment to creating environments where everyone can thrive. These qualities played a pivotal role in the search committee’s decision to appoint Mr. Sanchez as Superintendent.

Mr. Sanchez stated, “I’m honored and excited to be selected to serve as the full-time RNESU superintendent. Working with our staff, students, and community over the last six months has been truly rewarding. I look forward to partnering with our boards, employees, families, and eight towns to support our students and help them achieve success in school and beyond”.

A press release was shared with local community outlets following the announcement made to staff and families announcing this exciting news . Please join us in celebrating this important milestone for our district.