In a span of just a few hours Wednesday night, the media spoke with the two Omaha Public Schools superintendent candidates for the first time, hundreds lined up to meet the finalists at an open house, and the school board chose the next leader for the district.
The rapid selection of Omaha's new superintendent, Dr. Cheryl Logan, comes as a stark contrast from last year.
The two finalists withdrew over concerns the board didn't have faith in either of them.
Parent Alex Horton said he was surprised the board came together.
"I didn't expect there to be a decision made," Horton said. "It's kind of inconsistent of this board to make such a quick and unanimous decision."
Parent Ted Carter says the board has come a long way and new leadership is needed to move the district forward.
"I don't think you need to prolong the decision after you narrow it down to two," Carter said.
Many parents say they were encouraged by Dr. Logan's credentials and demeanor. But, in the end, her leadership ability will be measured on the progress in years to come.
"At the end of the day, the relationship you have as an educator with parents and students is the most important one," Horton said.
The school board said the next step is to engage in negotiations with Dr. Logan. Omaha's current superintendent Mark Evans' contract is set to expire in June.
