BY ANDREA TORTORA
The Cincinnati Enquirer
ALEXANDRIA -- The search for a new Campbell County Schools superintendent could end at tonight's school board meeting.
Board Vice Chairwoman Carol Haas said six finalists were being considered from an original field of 43. One of the six, John Coopman, superintendent of the Eastbrook Community School Cooperative in Muncie, Ind., said Tuesday that he had withdrawn his name.
The final field comprises two Campbell County school administrators, a Boone County administrator, the superintendent of Bethel-Tate Local Schools in Ohio and the Woodford County, Ky., superintendent. Campbell Superintendent Ross Julson announced in February that he would not seek a new contract. Mr. Julson, 58, superintendent for four years, plans to take a similar job in the South. His contract expires June 30.
The remaining finalists are:
Alan Ahrman, nine-year principal at Grants Lick Elementary. Mr. Ahrman, 48, also taught radio and television communications at Campbell County High School. He is a Grants Lick resident.
Linda Alford, director of special programs for Campbell County Schools. Ms. Alford, 51, has been in her job for 13 years. She also taught for five years in the district. She is a resident of Alexandria.
William Schula, superintendent for Bethel-Tate. Mr. Schula, 51, has been superintendent for 11 years. He previously was an administrator with Middletown City Schools.
Roger Brady, assistant superintendent of Boone County Schools.
Charles Dowler, superintendent of Woodford County Schools.
Neither Mr. Brady nor Mr. Dowler could be reached for comment. The school board received applications from eight women and 35 men from 16 states and Mexico.
Applicants included 15 superintendents, eight central office employees, 12 principals, two educational organization employees and six people in other lines of work. Of those who applied, 23 hold doctoral degrees.
Ms. Haas said the board expects to make a final decision by the end of the week if one is not reached tonight.
