The Sumner School District Board of Directors announced Friday that Superintendent Craig Spencer’s contract would be extended through June 2013. Spencer’s current contract was set to expire on June 30, 2012.

To continue the strategic direction and growth of the District, the Board has determined Spencer will continue to serve as superintendent, which will ensure a smooth transition of leadership, according to a press release from the district.

“Craig Spencer will serve as superintendent through June 2013, during which time the School Board will conduct a search for a new superintendent,” School Board President Sherm Voiles said.

Board members believe it is already too late in the year to begin a search for a new superintendent to be hired by July of 2012. The Board is committed to conducting a search process with care given to constituent voices, optimal succession planning and recruitment of the best candidates.

The one-year extension means the Board would kick-off the search in August 2012.

“I am honored to lead the talented and dedicated team of educators in the Sumner School District during these challenging and changing times,” Spencer said. “I’m committed to strengthening the culture that has always been the heart of Sumner—success for students and staff every day.”

Voiles also said Spencer’s integrity, knowledge and vast experience in education have been invaluable.

“I want to thank him for his many contributions to the District and his commitment to our students and staff,” he said.

The Board appointed Spencer to the position of superintendent effective July 1, 2011, to replace Gil Mendoza, who left the district following a mutual separation agreement.

Spencer has been with Sumner for 25 years, serving as a teacher, an elementary principal, the executive director of curriculum, instruction and assessment, and as the assistant superintendent.