School Issues Newsletter #76

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Subj:
Date: 1/25/2005
From: deckel1@hotmail.com
To: deckel1@hotmail.com

It's been a long time between messages, I apologize. I was hoping to set up a whole new system with a webpage on BEVNET, but have encountered some techinical difficulties that I still have to clear up. In the meantime, I'll use this hotmail account to contact you.

We are in the middle of a number of important tasks: hiring a new superintendent, forming a budget for 2005-2006, and hiring principles for three of our largest schools. We hired a consultant, Ray & Associates, to solicit input on the qualities we need in our new superintendent, help us advertise and attract candidates, and organize the interviews. We will be meeting with them next week to get our first look at the candidates who have applied for the position. We hope to hire someone to replace Fred Morton in early February.

The budget this year focuses on year two of the three-year plan to adjust district-wide salaries in order to remain competitive for the best teachers and reward the ones we already have. Other areas we have increased funds for include: 5 new instructional technolgy specialists mandated by the state. Two new gifted teachers, close to five new nurses (4.83 full-time-equivalents), and some money, a very small amount of money, for technology replacement (I wanted a lot more). There is money in the budget to support sending students to the Governor's School in Pulaski as well. I encourage you to stay tuned for chances to attend public hearings on the budget. We are asking for an increase of over 10% which is perhaps a little optimistic given the political environment.

I have appended a message about some meetings which will provide parents with a chance to discuss the principal positions with our Interim Superintendent, Jim Sellers. Please note the dates and come if you can.

Sincerely,
Doug Eckel

MEETING INVITATION:

Montgomery County Public Schools is in the process of hiring three new school administrators to serve as principals at Blacksburg High School, Blacksburg Middle School, and Christiansburg High School. Parents of children at these respective schools are encouraged to attend one of the following meetings. These meetings have been scheduled to gather input to determine the leadership and professional qualities inherent to the success of the administrator entering each of the schools listed.

Monday, February 7, 2005, at 6:00 p.m. in the Christiansburg High School Auditorium

Wednesday, February 9, 2005, at 7:00 p.m. in the Blacksburg High School Auditorium

Monday, February 14, 2005, at 7:00 p.m. in the New Blacksburg Middle School Auditorium

Dr. Doug Eckel
School Board, District F
Montgomery County
deckel1@hotmail.com

email: admin@gisone.com