The Kent School District has hired Ray and Associates, a national recruitment firm specializing in school executives, to help in the search for the district’s next superintendent.

The new superintendent will take over in July 1 for superintendent Barbara Grohe, who will retire after the current school year.

District officials said Ray and Associates will conduct public meetings to gather input on characteristics that the public wants in a superintendent. Three such opportunities are planned, including one in Covington. School Board member Bill Boyce said the district hopes citizens will attend a meeting and share their perspectives.

The closest meeting for Covington residents will be at 7 p.m. Oct. 2, at Jenkins Creek Elementary School at 26915 186th Ave. SE.

Additional information is available from the district at (253) 373-7524.