Ex-Havre superintendent to lead rural schools group

Former Havre Public Schools Superintendent Dennis Parman will become the executive director of the Montana Rural Education Association.

Since leaving Havre seven years ago, Parman has been Montana's deputy superintendent of public instruction, serving as the top aide to Superintendent Denise Juneau.

Parman will assume the office on July 1, succeeding Dave Puyear, who is retiring after 18 years in office.

Parman has 35 years in public education, serving in Shelby Public Schools before coming to Havre, where he served as deputy superintendent before being elevated to superintendent.

When Juneau was elected in 2010, she appointed Parman to be her assistant. She will be departing the job in December, being term-limited.

Parman topped dozens of candidates from across the country who applied for the post, said Kris Kuhen, chair of the MREA.

MREA officials said they were impressed by Parman when they conducted interviews.

"Dennis really distinguished himself in his interview and proved that he has the unique combination of experience, perspective, background and skills necessary to hit the ground running and foster MREA's success over the coming years" Kuhen said. "Dennis' showing was particularly impressive given the amazing quality of all the candidates."