The Whitefish School District Board of Trustees on Wednesday moved to negotiate a contract for interim superintendent with Lisa Bloom, the district’s director of curriculum and instruction.  

Trustees expressed confidence in Bloom and the administrative team, stating they put students first and are committed to the district. 

“Having served the Whitefish School District for the last 32 years, including 27 years as a teacher at Muldown Elementary, a term as the Whitefish Education Association [union] president, and the last five years as the director of curriculum, assessment and professional development, I’m honored to serve as the interim superintendent for the 2026-27 school year, only,” Bloom said.  

Emphasis was put on “only” as the board intends to initiate a renewed search for a permanent superintendent later this year, and to reengage the search firm McPherson and Jacobson, LLC. 

In the interim, “Lisa brings a great depth of experience,” said Trustee Darcy Schellinger, noting that Bloom has what both the board and community members said they wanted in a candidate. 

Experience in the district office is something that Bloom excels in, especially in comparison to previous candidates interviewed, Schellinger said.  

“It’s an invaluable piece of the process, knowing how to think not just about one building, but about the umbrella of the entire district,” Schellinger said.  

Last month, contract negotiations with the board’s selected finalist for superintendent Dr. Jenny Fee from Michigan fell through. Trustees said that Fee did not communicate expectations.  

The board began the search in November 2025 after current Superintendent Dave Means announced his intent to retire. The district hired consulting firm McPherson and Jacobson to initiate the search. On March 4 and 5, the district hosted community meet and greets and in person interviews for three finalists.   

Board Chair Elizabeth Pitman reiterated on Wednesday that both the district and the search firm “could not have been any clearer” about their expectations. 

Trustee Katie Clarke said that they are fortunate to have excellent leadership coming from within the district. 

“This is the second time this has happened to us,” Clarke said, referring to when Means was appointed interim in March 2020. “With the housing crisis and the cost of living, it is very difficult to find somebody from outside to come in. So, we are so fortunate to have great people here. 

“I am confident about Lisa’s skills and abilities. And much like when Dave stepped into it, it’s a team; it’s Lisa and a whole team, of people who put kids first and are committed to this district.” 

Bloom said, “Our greatest resource is our people, from maintenance and food services, to support personnel, coaches, educators and administrators. I’m proud to be a member of such a dedicated team.” 

Students remain the top priority, Bloom said.  

“My primary goal is to ensure our staff and families continue to feel supported through clear communication and consistent systems,” she said.  

“I want to thank Dave Means for his guidance. We’ve been a strong team in the district office and I've learned a great deal from his leadership. I also want to express my gratitude to the administrative team for their support. I wouldn’t be here without them.  

“Next year, I am committed to letting my actions demonstrate my dedication to this district, as I prepare to transition leadership to the next superintendent. I appreciate your support and look forward to our continued collaboration.”

Editor Kelsey Evans can be reached at 406-862-3505 or [email protected]. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at whitefishpilot.com/support.