The Gary Community School Corp. is seeking public feedback as officials prepare to appoint the next principal at West Side Leadership Academy, the district’s lone high school.
The district has released a survey asking stakeholders to rate qualities and characteristics sought in the next school leader.
Survey takers are required to include a name and email address. The deadline to submit surveys is April 3.
The survey comes a month after the school board voted against renewing the contract of current principal Carl Scott, who’s led the school since 2022.
The vote caught school staff members and students by surprise. Students walked out of school last month in protest of Scott’s removal. Many students and staff members praised Scott’s leadership and effectiveness during his tenure.
At a February school board meeting, Assistant Principal Janora Holmes said her son and his classmates embraced Scott’s tenure.
“My son and his 2026 class believe their principal honed in on their academic abilities and respects their voice.
“The changes have brought an air of uncertainty and chaos.”
Student council president Joel Moore said last month students protested Scott’s removal because they wanted their voices to be heard.
“He’s done so much for us and our community. For me personally, he fought for me to get scholarships. I’m at $10,000 now. I’m like, we got to fight for him.”
More Top Picks Best Drip Irrigation Kits For Raised Beds
School officials declined to offer reasons for Scott’s dismissal.
Superintendent Yvonne Stokes issued a statement saying the district was unable to share specific details regarding the decision not to renew the principal’s contract.
“We understand that leadership transitions can bring strong emotions from members of the school community, including students, staff, and families. We respect these perspectives and deeply value the engagement and voice of our community,” she said.
Among the questions asked in the survey is the importance of experience and the qualities needed in the next principal.
The survey is available at West Side’s website, https://www.garycsc.k12.in.us/o/wsla.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.