School superintendent attempts to allay fears

As the 2011-12 school year draws to a close, "a time of uncertainty and turmoil" hangs over teachers and staff members of Delta County Joint School District #50.

In a May 11 letter to staff, superintendent Jerre Doss acknowledged that rumors are rampant.

He urges staff members to "stay focused on your students, remain calm, maintain a positive attitude, and resist the temptation to participate in the 'rumor mill.' "

Yet changes at the district office and the reported dismissal of two third grade teachers at Lincoln Elementary School are keeping the rumor mill running at full speed.

"Massive numbers of employees are NOT losing their jobs," Doss said in his letter dated May 11. "Non-probationary (tenured) teachers who have not been notified otherwise through the evaluation process will have a job next year."

He acknowledges that probationary teachers are more at risk due to budget cuts, building transfers or performance evaluations.

"Classified employees will be returning in the fall based on job performance and/or district needs," he continues. "Our school district requires over 700 employees to meet the needs of our students. Employee turnover occurs every year, and this year is no different."

Doss stresses that the curriculum alignment process is moving forward as planned, although primary oversight will change hands from district director Connie Vincent to the assistant superintendent. Applications for the newly created position of assistant superintendent are currently being reviewed, along with applications for a human resources director.

According to the job description posted on the school district website, the assistant superintendent is charged with accreditation, assessment, public relations and transportation. The assistant superintendent will act as the superintendent in his or her absence, promote and support professional growth for self and others, promote the vision and mission of the school district, and other duties as assigned by the superintendent.

The human resources director is expected to supervise personnel and personnel policies, recruitment, contracts, teacher orientation and recordkeeping, among other duties.

Both job descriptions may be modified to more closely match the successful candidates' experience and skills, district spokesman Bill Carlquist explained. He added that the job descriptions were compiled by Doss, Caryn Gibson, the current personnel director, and Debra Richards, administrative assistant.

Applications for both positions will be reviewed by a panel of district staff led by Dr. Jerre Doss. They will narrow the field to two or three finalists for interview by the school board next week.

The school district is attempting to consolidate the roles of several district directors under fewer employees, with the goal of saving administrative expenses.

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