Rockwood Schools Chief, Board President Issue Statements on Job Candidacy

Eureka-Wildwood Patch broke news yesterday about the candidacy of Bruce Borchers, superintendent of the Rockwood School District, for a superintendent position in Tennessee. You can read the earlier story about Borchers candidacy here and see statements below by Borchers and Rockwood school board president Janet Strate.

From Bruce Borchers: Some of you may have read or heard about my interviewing with the Oak Ridge School District in Tennessee. My professional career has been devoted to continuous improvement.

I have always been open to opportunities to work with school districts and Boards who share that vision. That is what led me to Rockwood—and what is now leading me to explore an opportunity with Oak Ridge. This is an opportunity for me and my family that we felt we had to consider.

We are excited about the possibility of being a part of the Oak Ridge community and working with the staff and families in this district. I have always believed—and will continue to believe—that Rockwood is an outstanding district.

I am honored to serve as your superintendent. I look forward to what the future holds for both Rockwood and Oak Ridge. Sincerely, Bruce.

From Rockwood Board of Education President Janet Strate: Dr. Borchers informed us of this opportunity and his intent to pursue it. At this point, it would be premature for us to talk about any future steps or plans.

Once the Oak Ridge Board has made an official decision, we will be able to discuss how we are going to proceed. We want to assure our staff and community that our focus remains on students and doing what is best for them.

Several critical decisions will be made within the next week. On Tuesday, voters will decide on two board members and on Prop S.

Additionally, the board will be determining the timeline for selecting a replacement for Steve Smith. We will communicate openly with our community about all of these important issues.