‘Don’t need to look any further’: LPS picks John Skretta as permanent superintendent

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Lincoln Public Schools board has chosen a permanent leader for the district.

The school board voted Tuesday to give interim Superintendent John Skretta the job on a permanent basis.

It was a unanimous decision, with a standing ovation by everyone in the meeting.

SEE ALSO: One-on-one interview with LPS interim Superintendent John Skretta

Skretta was tapped as the interim superintendent in January to replace Paul Gausman.

He was expected to lead the district during an 18-month search for a permanent superintendent.

But the LPS board was satisfied with Skretta’s performance and said giving him the job would avoid a costly search.

“When you have it right in front of you, you don’t need to look any further,” board member Annie Mumgaard said.

Under the contract, Skretta will earn $333,720 this school year.

He said he will focus on the district’s five-year plan, which sets goals for students, staff, the community and the district.

“We actually have tangible goals identified and some pretty ambitious targets,” he said.

A couple of those goals include increasing the graduation rate and recruiting and retaining teachers.

When it comes to this path forward, board President Bob Rauner said he has complete confidence in Skretta.

He believes the new leader will bring stability to the district.

“I’m hoping he’s here for like five to 10 years,” Rauner said. “This is where a lot of people aspire to be. I suspect he’ll be here for a while and we’ll be able to make it through that strategic plan and to the next one.”

Skretta said he will be accessible and approachable in the role.

“I love engaging with staff and students,” he said. “The opportunities to interact with students really remind us of what it’s all about because those are our future leaders.”