MALVERN, Ark. — The Malvern School District has extended its superintendent search after the leading candidate withdrew during the monthlong process to replace departing Superintendent Grant Castellano.

Yolanda Ellery, chair of the district’s hiring committee, said the withdrawal ended the committee’s consideration of its top prospect and required the district to keep the search open rather than make an appointment. The committee will continue seeking a successor for Castellano, who is leaving the superintendent post after five years.

The decision leaves the district without a selected replacement as Castellano prepares to depart. Ellery said the committee’s next step is to continue the superintendent search under the extended process.