The Butler County school board approved a schedule Thursday for appointing the district’s new superintendent.

The board plans to pick a new school leader by March 20, when the superintendent selection will be announced at the regular school board meeting.

The opening was created by the resignation of Darren Douthitt, who resigned in January to accept the same position with the Anniston City School district.

Amy Bryan, director of federal programs for the Butler County School System, was named interim superintendent on Feb. 4.

Candidates for the position have until Feb. 28 to submit a statement of interest in the position. On March 5, board members will screen applicants’ resumes and determine which candidates to invite for an interview.

At Thursday’s meeting, the board agreed to narrow the field to three before the interview process begins.

On March 10, community members will have an opportunity to meet the candidates at 5 p.m. and board members will interview the candidates at 6 p.m.

The new superintendent is expected to begin work April 1 or April 15.