During the first of two days of interviews, Berman, 58, superintendent of Hudson Public Schools in Massachusetts, answered questions from Greater Louisville Inc., the Jefferson County Public Education Foundation and the 15th District PTA Board.
Later, he took part in a large community forum inside Durrett Auditorium at JCPS Gheens Academy.
"I really liked what he had to say about the importance of arts in education, but it concerned me when he said that he wouldn't have a plan coming in (to the district)," Kaileigh said. "I did admire the fact that he admitted that he would have a lot to learn if he came here. I think it takes a lot of strength for a person to admit that."
Berman said he was intrigued by the questions the day brought and the people he met.
"This is a wonderful community and a wonderful school district," Berman said after the forum. "I have done enough research into it to know that there are a lot of advantages here; there's a solid foundation. And I think I can bring my knowledge to bear in continuing that tradition and enhancing that tradition."
Among those who attended yesterday's public forum were about 50 people associated with the Justice Resource Center, whose leaders have criticized the school board for failing to include more diverse candidates, and bringing in only Berman.
They held a silent protest, holding signs that gave the school board an "F" for its search and stated they were tired of the board's "done deals." They left after about an hour.
"I listened to what he (Berman) had to say and it doesn't sound bad, but I just don't think there are enough candidates to hear from," said Lamont Jenkins, who has two grandchildren in public schools in Jefferson County. "Several of us feel like he is being shoved down our throat."
Berman has been superintendent of Hudson Public Schools, a district of roughly 2,900 students 40 miles west of Boston, for the past 14 years.
He is the only person to interview for Jefferson County Public Schools' top job. Two other finalists dropped out last week.
Berman is seeking the position being vacated by Stephen Daeschner, who makes $201,074 a year.
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