The number of applicants for the rector's role at Waitaki Boys' High School has nearly doubled, after the school re-advertised the position.
Seven applications were received for the rector's position in December last year, but applications were re-opened to cast a wider net.
Commissioner Nicola Hornsey said the timing of the initial application process was not ideal.
The second round closed yesterday, and 12 applications had been received, she said.
They would now be considered in consultation with a recruitment panel and it was hoped a new rector would be appointed by the end of this month, she said.
Former Otago Boys' High School rector Clive Rennie has been temporarily acting as rector of the school since December last year.
It was hoped the new principal would begin working at the school in the fourth term.
Ms Hornsey said from there, a board of trustees would be established.
"Once the new principal is fully inducted into the role, I find it gives the community confidence and willingness to get involved - that comes quite quickly.
"So, optimistically, it's possible it could all be resolved before the end of this year. But that's up to the ministry to decide.''
She said the school was doing well but it had not yet been determined how long she would remain at the school.
A review would be carried out in October this year to decide how much longer the school would need her services, she said.
