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The LA Unified board voted last night to start the search for a new superintendent by issuing a request for bids to firms that would aide in the selection process.

The move is the first step toward identifying candidates to replace the current superintendent, Ramon Cortines, who has expressed a desire to step down by the end of the calendar year.

The board also voted to promote Sharon Howell to Associate Superintendent for Special Education. Previously an assistant superintendent, Howell will now see a $1 billion program for the 20 percent of students who fall into the program.