Iowa City School Board members approved a list of desired characteristics for a new superintendent at Tuesday’s board meeting.

District officials recently penned the list summarizing feedback from community members and district staff members.

The list includes characteristics such as decisiveness, innovation, and willingness to become familiar with the Iowa City community and its history.

Board members also discussed whether or not they will require that candidates looking to fill the role should have prior experience as a superintendent.

District officials are screening candidates, and some board members said they feel it’s important to clarify their expectations during this process.

“I think we need to be very explicit if we have a consensus that that’s what we want,” said board member Toni Cilek.

Board member Sarah Swisher noted she wants officials to focus less on the specifics of candidates’ previous experience at this point, so board members can interview a wide range of candidates.

Board members will discuss the hiring process at an interview-related workshop set for April 13.

— by Holly Hines