The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 board has taken a significant step in shaping the district’s future by selecting Alma Advisory Group to lead the search for the next superintendent. The decision, made during a special meeting on Monday, reflects the board’s commitment to finding a leader who can guide the district for years to come.
The board voted 6-1 in favor of Alma Advisory Group, with board member Mya Wilkins casting the sole dissenting vote. The decision was influenced by the firm’s recent experience working with Evanston Township High School in spring 2026, where they successfully led the search that resulted in the hiring of Marcus Campbell as superintendent.
The Search for a Generational Leader
Board members emphasized the importance of finding a generational leader who can stay in the role for an extended period. Andrew Wymer expressed his desire for a leader who could serve for 20 years, stating, “Someone who’s with us not just five years, not just 10 years, but maybe even 20 years. That would be my desired outcome here.”
Chris Van Nostrand the vice president of the board, agreed with Wymer’s vision. He highlighted the opportunity presented by the role, stating, “I think it’s completely reasonable to assume that we can attract a generational leader, partially because we have a generational opportunity.” Van Nostrand also noted the importance of the board’s role in making the position attractive to potential candidates.
The Selection Process and Contract Negotiations
The board’s decision was not made lightly. Nichole Pinkard the board president, cited the firm’s recent experience in Evanston and the thorough due diligence process that took place behind the scenes. She mentioned calling references for Alma to ensure their qualifications.
Alma Advisory Group, a Chicago-based firm founded in 2016, offered an initial contract with a fee of 32% of the chosen superintendent’s projected salary. This amounts to an estimated $80,000 fee, assuming a salary of $250,000 a year. However, the exact number has yet to be agreed upon, and the board will negotiate with Alma before bringing a formal contract for approval at its next meeting on Aug. 31.
Prioritizing Transparency and Community Engagement
Board members also emphasized the importance of transparency in the search process and engaging diverse stakeholders. Sergio Hernandez appreciated Alma’s emphasis on community engagement, noting that the firm works with community organizations, including churches, to meet families where they are.
Maria Opdycke echoed the sentiment, stating that spending more now to get a better result was a key consideration. She mentioned past searches that did not yield large fields of candidates, although this could not be independently confirmed.
The board’s decision to select Alma Advisory Group reflects their commitment to finding a leader who can guide the district through its next chapter. With a focus on transparency, community engagement, and the search for a generational leader, the board is taking significant steps to shape the future of Evanston/Skokie School District 65.
