Wausau narrows Superintendent search to 2, including former Horace Mann principal

The finalists are:
• Dr. Keith W. Hilts, Jr. – Superintendent, School District of Ashland
• Dr. Larry W. Ouimette – Superintendent, Lac du Flambeau School District

Prior to the School Board’s interviews, a Staff/Community Interview Committee and an Administrative Interview Committee will interview the finalists during the afternoon of January 29. Each interview committee participant will complete an interview feedback form. These forms will provide valuable feedback to the School Board in moving forward with the decision-making process.

Hilts, who has a Ph.D. in leadership, learning and service along with a masters degree in educational administration, is the current superintendent of schools in Ashland. During his more than seven years in the district, Hilts helped develop and implement three multi-age charter schools, according to his resume. Voters in Ashland in April 2015 supported a $34 million facility referendum.

Prior to joining the Ashland School District in July 2010, Hilts worked at schools in Random Lake, Grafton, Madison, Portage, and Oregon, Wis.

Ouimette, who is the current superintendent of the Lac du Flambeau School District, holds a Ph.D. in education and a masters degree in educational administration. Before assuming his current role in July 2005, Ouimette worked for the Wausau School District for nine years, including seven serving as principal of Horace Mann Middle School. He previously worked as a history teacher at D.C. Everest High School, and taught at schools in Ashland and Columbus, according to his resume.

The School Board will interview the finalists in closed session on Monday, Jan. 29.