With current superintendent Dan Hoverman’s upcoming retirement at the end of this school year, the School Board named Chris Lennox as the new superintendent effective July 1.

The Board hired Lennox as assistant superintendent in July 2015 to see how he would handle the job.

For the past ten months, Lennox has worked with Hoverman nearly every day. He collaborated with him on district affairs such as working with principals and teachers and participating in building planning and reviews.

“I had great learning opportunities in the daily work I performed with Superintendent Hoverman,” said Lennox. “I’ve been most impressed by his ability to know and have connections with nearly everyone on every site. He really emphasizes that commitment is at the core of the job.”

The Board watched him throughout the year to see how he would handle the job. “He was essentially on a 10-month job interview while we watched to see if he was a good fit for our district,” said Board Chair Amy Jones.

Lennox passed the test; when Hoverman announced his retirement, it was clear that Lennox would be his successor. “He met all of the criteria we had developed on what we required in a superintendent,” said Jones.

Lennox has been part of the education system for 21 years. In the past, he’s worked as a teacher, dean, principal and assistant superintendent in different districts around the Twin Cities. Thanks to his experience, Lennox feels well prepared for his new role. “Having varied experiences allows me to look at what’s happening and apply different lenses,” he said.

His first test on the job will deal with increasing enrollment. “One thing Mounds View has seen in the past few years in an increased enrollment. We will have to continually make sure that our facilities are able to handle and accommodate our students and faculty,” said Lennox.

Looking toward the future, Lennox hopes to continue the work of Superintendent Hoverman by meeting the needs of the Mounds View community. “[I want to make] sure that we continue the great work that has started,” said Lennox. “We’ll improve and innovate—high expectations, standards and opportunities will remain a commitment.”