Harris One of Two Superintendent Finalists in S. Huntington Search

The South Huntington school district has narrowed its superintendent search to two finalists — one being Jacqueline Harris, the current superintendent of student services.

At a meet the candidates forum Thursday at the , school board trustee Ed Nitkewicz, up for re-election, made the announcement when asked if any safeguards are in place in the search for the best possible replacement for outgoing superintendent Thomas Shea.

Nitkewicz said school board members recently met with 12 candidates over the course of two days.

"Where we are at now is we have two finalists and I'm privileged to say that one of the finalists is sitting in this room ... Jackie Harris," said Nitkewicz, at the NAACP-sponsored event.

Harris has helped reshape special education in South Huntington, according to Nitkewicz.

"Jackie Harris is not a finalist because she is black," said Nitkewicz. "Jackie Harris is a finalist because she is an outstanding educator." 

The name of the other finalist was not given. School board president Jim Kaden told Patch an announcement will be made next week regarding the final choice.

Shea announced in September that he planned to retire after 14 years in the district. He has served as superintendent since 2003.