SANDY — Two local educators, with two identical academic degrees from Brigham Young University, are the top finalists for superintendent of the newly formed East Jordan School District.

Dave Doty, 43, of Sandy, is assistant commissioner and director of policy studies with the Utah System of Higher Education in Salt Lake City.

Martin Bates, 41, of Salt Lake City, is an assistant superintendent for Granite School District in Salt Lake City.

"Both of the candidates have the attributes we are looking for," said Terry Cowdell, president of East Jordan School Board.

"They are charismatic, articulate and have impeccable credentials," Cowdell said, adding he is impressed with both candidates' experience in public education.

During the next few weeks, the school board will be conducting site visits during which they will talk with colleagues of the candidates. There will also be a second round of interviews for the pair.

The board plans to announce the new hire at its Aug. 19 meeting. The superintendent could start work a few weeks after that.

Doty has worked with the Utah System of Higher Education for the past three years.

He earned a bachelor's degree in Spanish from BYU, a master's degree in education from Stanford University, a doctorate in educational leadership from BYU, and a law degree from BYU. He graduated from law school in 1993. Doty has practiced law in three different firms, focusing on education law and representing public schools and school districts.

Doty grew up in Iowa. He has three children in East Jordan District schools.

Bates has been with the Granite district for the past 12 years. He has spent eight years as assistant superintendent and three years as human resources director.

Bates earned his bachelor's degree in special education from BYU, a doctorate in educational leadership from BYU, and a law degree from BYU. He graduated from law school in 1996.

"What an exciting opportunity," Bates said, of being named a finalist.

Bates speaks German, grew up in Salt Lake City and has eight children.

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