Galesburg Schools Launch Community Survey for Superintendent Search

District 205 seeks public input to shape profile of next leader

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:27pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a blurred school building or classroom, with indistinct figures of students and teachers visible through a hazy, rain-streaked lens, conveying a sense of community engagement and the search for an educational leader.The community survey aims to ensure Galesburg's next school superintendent reflects the values and priorities of local residents.Galesburg Today

Galesburg CUSD 205 has opened a community survey as part of its search for a new superintendent, inviting residents, parents, and staff to help define the professional and personal characteristics the board is seeking in its next district leader. The input gathered will be used to build a leadership profile, with the goal of selecting a candidate by fall 2026 to start on July 1, 2027.

Why it matters

Engaging the community in the superintendent search process is crucial for building trust and ensuring the district selects a leader who aligns with the values and priorities of Galesburg residents. This open approach contrasts with the district's past searches, which relied on outside firms.

The details

The online survey is available at galesburg205.org, and all responses will be kept confidential. Board of Education President Courtney Rodriguez said the district is committed to a transparent process. Superintendent John Asplund announced in March that the 2026-27 school year will be his last, ending a decade-long tenure. The District 205 Board of Education is conducting the search internally, a departure from using outside firms in the past two superintendent searches.

  • Superintendent Asplund's retirement takes effect on June 30, 2027.
  • Applications for the superintendent position are due by August 3, 2026.
  • The board anticipates selecting a candidate in fall 2026.

The players

Courtney Rodriguez

President of the District 205 Board of Education.

John Asplund

Current superintendent of Galesburg CUSD 205, who announced his retirement effective June 30, 2027.

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What they’re saying

“We look forward to engaging with our internal and external stakeholders throughout this comprehensive and transparent process.”

— Courtney Rodriguez, Board of Education President

What’s next

The District 205 Board of Education will review the community survey responses and use the feedback to develop a leadership profile for the next superintendent. The board anticipates selecting a candidate in fall 2026, with the new superintendent beginning on July 1, 2027.

The takeaway

Galesburg's public school district is taking an open and inclusive approach to its superintendent search, seeking broad community input to ensure the next leader aligns with the values and priorities of the local community. This contrasts with the district's past reliance on outside firms, signaling a commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement.