The Newberg School Board has narrowed its search for superintendent to three candidates. Board members concluded interviews Tuesday evening and announced today that Dr. Kym LeBlanc-Esparza, Dr. Scott Crane and Dr. David Gray are finalists for the position.

The school board invites and encourages staff, parents, students and community members to meet the finalists at a candidates forum on Friday, April 27th from 5-6:30 p.m. at Chehalem Valley Middle School, 403 W. Foothills Drive, Newberg.

The candidates for Newberg superintendent are:

Dr. Kym LeBlanc-Esparza is the Executive Director of K-12 Schools for the 42,000-student Adams 12 Five Star School District in Northglenn, Colorado. She currently leads and supervises principals of K-12 schools including comprehensive high schools, middle and elementary schools, magnet schools and alternative education campuses. Dr. LeBlanc-Esparza is an experienced administrator and teacher with a strong background in curriculum, math and science.

Dr. Scott Crane is the Superintendent of Blackfoot School District in Blackfoot, Idaho, a position he has held since 2007. He has served in district and school administrative positions in the 4,100-student district since 1985. Dr. Crane has led schools to continuous student improvement in reading and mathematics, as well as state and national recognition.

Dr. David Gray is the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in Battle Ground Public Schools in Battleground, Washington. Since 2008, Dr. Gray has been responsible for overseeing teaching and learning, career and technical education, special education, research and assessment in the 13,000-student district. His experience includes oversight of bond projects, facilities and maintenance, operations and transportation. Dr. Gray has served as a superintendent of two small school districts, a principal, teacher and a manager with the Colorado Department of Education.

The Newberg School Board anticipates selecting a new superintendent at the May 8, 2012 school board meeting. Current Superintendent Dr. Paula Radich announced earlier this year that she is retiring at the end of June.