Richfield Public Schools has selected Steven Unowsky as its next superintendent.

Unowsky is currently an assistant superintendent with St. Paul Public Schools. He will replace the retiring Robert Slotterback who has served as superintendent since 2008.

Prior to his current position in St. Paul, he was the Director of Leadership Development and Academic Support as well as an elementary and middle school principal in the district.

He has also served as an assistant principal in Saudi Arabia and as an assistant principal and teacher at Annunciation School in Minneapolis.

"He's a high energy guy who clearly has high expectations for himself as well as others," said Board Chairman Todd Nollenberger of Unowsky.

Unowsky is currently enrolled in an Educational Doctorate program at St. Mary's University; completed administrative licensure programs at St. Mary's as well as at Minnesota State University, Mankato; and holds master's and bachelor's degrees from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.

School leaders say they hope to have a contract with Unowsky finalized in coming weeks.