Caldwell School District Superintendent Shalene French is wrapping up her final weeks on the job after announcing last summer that she would retire at the conclusion of the current school year. The 60-year-old administrator has led the district for ten years, navigating both successes and challenges during her tenure.
Mountain View Principal Scot Montoya will take over as superintendent after Caldwell School Board members selected him in February to lead the 133-year-old district.
Taking the Reins During Turbulent Times
French inherited a district in turmoil when she assumed the superintendent role a decade ago. In summer 2015, the school board was generating consistent negative headlines after removing French’s predecessor and his assistant from their positions. The controversial decision sparked public backlash and resulted in voters successfully recalling two board trustees.
The new superintendent initially wondered whether she was prepared to lead a community fractured by governance disputes. Her first priority became rebuilding trust with the reconstituted school board. French asked board members to read Stephen Covey’s “The Speed of Trust” together and organized a summer training retreat to establish clear expectations for moving forward.
“In all reality, that was my number one priority is to build trust with them and that they knew I wasn’t going to just leave in a year, and that we really had a vision and a mission for the kids in Caldwell,” French told the Idaho Press in a recent interview.
A Mixed Record of Changes
During her decade leading Caldwell schools, French oversaw the implementation of numerous programs for students and parents. The district also faced significant challenges, including a failed bond levy that forced administrators to close an elementary school and consolidate other facilities.
Reflecting on a Career in Education
French recently sat down with local media to discuss the highs and lows of managing the Canyon County school district. She reflected on her years steering educational policy and programs for Caldwell families.
What Comes Next
Montoya will officially assume the superintendent position when French’s retirement becomes effective at the end of the academic year. The leadership transition marks a new chapter for the Caldwell School District as it continues serving students across the community.