School district to add ‘strategic engagement officer’
The School District of Lee County approved a new position on Aug. 11 during a lengthy special meeting, with the new post in effect as of Aug. 12.
The new position, chief strategic engagement officer, was filled by Lauren Stillwell, the current chief of staff. The School Development Elementary School Executive Director Dr. Denise Carlin stepped into the chief of staff position.
Schools Superintendent Dr. Ken Savage said he values Stillwell, as she has served the district well and provided a tremendous value. He said her leadership through the pandemic has been beyond approach and was truly phenomenal.
The chief strategic engagement officer position, provides a powerful leadership opportunity, he said.
When the motion passed 7-0, Savage told the board it was a pretty special moment for him. He said he has a tremendous amount of respect for their ability to contribute as they already have in the organization in very powerful ways.
“This gives them a new opportunity to contribute in new ways as well,” Savage said.
He explained that the chief strategic engagement officer will focuses on key components, including engaging with stakeholders and the business community. He said it is important to reflect on who the district is and if every child feels like their school is truly theirs.
The chief strategic engagement officer will build opportunities for two-way information sharing and collaboration.
“If this organization is a body, it is the skin of the organization,” Savage said.
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