CES Executive Searches Team
 
Our Executive Searches team guides your district through a comprehensive process to find the best candidate. Strict confidentiality during the application process, a comprehensive publicity plan to attract a strong pool of candidates, and a complete evaluation and transition training will ensure a successful placement. When you choose CES to facilitate executive searches, you hire experienced professionals with the full resources of CES.
 
Dr. Charles Dumais, Executive Director
Dr. Charles Dumais joined CES in 2018. Prior to that, he served as the Superintendent of Amity Regional School District. Dumais, who has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physics, has chaired a science department, served as an assistant principal in Westport, and was Newtown High School’s principal. He co-chairs the Technology Committee of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, serves as a superintendent consultant to the Connecticut Association of Schools Board of Directors, and is an active member of several regional and national organizations, including the Connecticut Commission for Educational Technology. He oversees the CES team and the induction/entry plan for all newly hired administrators.  He also ensures complete client satisfaction through feedback and evaluation.
 
Executive Searches Support Team
Christopher La Belle, Associate Executive Director
Christopher La Belle joined CES in 2005. He has nearly 25 years of educational experience, including nine years as an urban elementary school principal in Connecticut. La Belle was the 2009 Magnet Schools of America Northeast Regional Principal of the Year. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served as a military police officer. He holds a degree in Journalism and has worked professionally in public and community relations for one of Connecticut’s largest hospitals. La Belle has an active role in building-level administrative searches and participating in community focus groups for superintendent searches.
 
Barbara Pace, Executive Assistant
Barbara Pace has been the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director at CES since 2000. Pace began her career at CES in 1991 as the administrative assistant in Professional Development Services and later as Manager of Transportation. At CES, she provides full administrative support during the search process, from initial communication with the district board of education until a final candidate is selected and formally hired.