By Patrick Tepoorten

Following a day spent in the district and lengthy interview, Deb Henton was chosen, unofficially and pending contract negotiations, as the North Branch Area School District's next superintendent.

Official action to enter into contract negotiations will be taken at the next meeting of the school board, on April 12. But, following the interview process Tuesday evening, the board agreed that it would vote to do so, thereby allowing for a Wednesday announcement that they had reached a decision.

Henton has extensive experience in public education. She is currently the chief of staff for St. Paul Public Schools, and has worked in various capacities for the Harding, Stillwater, St. Louis Park, South Washington County school districts.

A reception is planned for Henton later this spring. No date has yet been announced.