The board discussed how the search for a new Franklin City Public Schools superintendent would proceed. Former Superintendent William Pruett retired last month.

Despite an empty house, public opinion was still of great importance and discussion at Wednesday night’s school board meeting.

The board discussed how the search for a new Franklin City Public Schools superintendent would proceed. Former Superintendent William Pruett retired last month.

School board members will rely in part on a public survey to gather opinions on what qualities the new superintendent should have. The written survey, which complements a public forum earlier this month, asks citizens to give their opinion on requirements for the new superintendent. Categories include level of education completed, place of residency, and work and teaching experience.

According to Clerk of the Board Sandra Edwards, 3,450 surveys were mailed to Franklin residents. As of Wednesday’s board meeting, 260 residents had responded, or fewer than 7 percent. Five percent were returned to sender because of invalid addresses.

Said board Chairman Bill Scarboro: “We received some responses. I want to hear them.”

Once the surveys have been collected, they will be evaluated.

“The surveys will help us understand what the public wants in the next superintendent,” Scarboro said.

The opinions of citizens will help the board formulate interview questions for applicants, according to Scarboro.

The board also plans to use surveys with the applicants themselves. As community members have ranked the importance of certain qualities for the next superintendent, applicants will rate themselves on their own skills.

Tentatively, the application window will be open until mid-October, with a goal to conduct interviews in late November and December, officials said. The new superintendent could possibly start the first week of January.