Interview with Richard Bain

Interview with Superintendent of Silsbee ISD, Richard Bain

What are the most important skills for a superintendent?

Mr. Bain said the most important skill for a superintendent is communication. A superintendent needs to be able to communicate effectively with all stakeholders at all times. You need to be able to relate to everyone, be a good public relations person. The larger the school district the more people a superintendent relies on to handle specific situations. The superintendent still needs to be knowledgeable of what’s going on to be able to communicate effectively.

What has been your most difficult experience?

Dealing with a deficit budget and making those decisions to balance the budget while making sure you have the money to do the things you want to do.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?

Crossing the barrier to an exemplary district. This happened when he was superintendent of Water Valley ISD.

What is your vision of the future?

First, for all campuses in Silsbee ISD to be recognized, and the exemplary. I want to see Silsbee become a leader in Southeast Texas in academics, career and technology, and what we offer students and teachers. I want people to think excellence when they hear Silsbee.