After an unusually long meeting the School Committee got to the most controversial item on its agenda: extension of the superintendent’s contract.
Superintendent Jefferson has asked that his contract be extended to three years, to end in June 2011, rather than June 2010. Chairman Stu Sklar said he had sought advice from education authorities as well as town counsel, who advises many school boards. Sklar said their opinion is that not extending a superintendent’s contract is tantamount to firing him or her. Sklar further explained that since a superintendent has to give 180 days notice, it is only fair to grant extensions well before a contract draws near closing.
Committee members were divided in their opinions on a timeline as well as on their support for Jefferson. Positive comments were balanced by recognition of past issues and community perceptions.
Committee member Virginia Justicz proposed postponing the vote on the contract extension until the Sept. 22 meeting. Committee member Willie Wickman commented that she didn’t see how two weeks could affect people’s positions. Justicz replied that she thought the time would allow the discussion to “percolate.” The motion passed by a vote of 3 to 2.
