By Jaye Sudar
WALSENBURG- RE-1 met with two CASB representatives, teachers, administrators and the public this evening to begin the process of finding a new superintendent. For over an hour, suggestions, ideas and desires were voiced about what the district wants in a new superintendent. The CASB representatives took a list back with them to formulate the search parameters.
The regular board meeting started on a joyful note. Jeanne Wilkins was presented with a retirement gift rewarding her 33 years of service to the district. She stated that during her time as a teacher, she had gotten married, had children, taught students, their children, and been to weddings as well as funerals for students.
JMHS principal Doc Siders was next, bringing a somber note to the meeting. Eric D′Ambrosia, an 11th grade student had died in a car accident. Doc praised Eric. She said he was helpful and delightful. The high school was in shock, and the 11th grade class would be holding a memorial service on Wednesday at 5 pm before the awards ceremony.
Gardner principal Linda Bennett reported that the laptops had arrived and that eighth grade graduation was would be held on Wednesday. Liz Schneider was awarded teacher of the month and Daniel Scarcella was awarded student of the month.
Peakview Principal Pat Martinez reported that the end of school was full of graduations, awards and field trips. Jane Jacquart was awarded teacher of the month and Nancy Sanchez and Barbara Klein-Johnson were recognized as volunteers of the month.
The board approved the contract with CASB for approximately $9500 which will pay for the superintendent search process. A motion was also made to approve that the superintendent salary be advertised to start at $93k plus benefits.
In other business, the board accepted Mary Ann Boyer Pedraza′s resignation letter, hired a secretary for the high school, hired staff for John Mall High School′s summer school, approved maternity leave for Elizabeth Brown and approved a change of meeting dates in June. The district will be meeting with CDE on June 9th to continue discussions on the three year improvement plan for the district.
