Wood Creek Principal Named to Farmington Schools HR Post

Kathy Smith, who currently serves as Wood Creek Elementary School principal, will early next year take on a new Farmington Public Schools administrative role. 

School board members voted Nov. 12 to hire Smith as Executive Director of Human Resources (HR) and Employee Relations. Administrators restructured an associate superintendent position vacated by David Ruhland earlier this year, paring it down and having others take on some of his duties. 

Associate Superintendent Michele Harmala said the district advertised Ruhland's position, which included oversight of HR, labor relations, legal services and technology. Only two candidates applied, and one withdrew. 

Seven candidates were interviewed for the redefined position, Harmala said.

She described Smith as "a leader who focuses on continuous growth in herself, in others and in our organization. She is focused on results that are always best for students." Smith has had experience with employee discipline and dismissal, Harmala said, "and she has approached these occasions with the diligence and caring concern that is needed for all involved."

Smith has served with the district for almost 25 years, also serving as a classroom teacher, science consultant and principal of Fairview Early Childhood Center and Hillside Elementary.

The district will post the Wood Creek principal position, giving applicants the option to start immediately or July 1, "so that you throw a wide net to draw more candidates," Harmala said. Most principals would not leave their schools at this time of year, she added. 

"I am so excited to be able to continue my passion and dedication to Farmington Public Schools," Smith told officials.