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Hancock Public Schools’ Board of Education welcomed its new trustees to their first regular meeting. Ahead of getting into the board’s action items, members needed to complete some housekeeping with new members in attendance. Michael Lancour has been promoted from secretary to vice president of the board of education. Emily Lancour will take over secretary duties. The members will begin their new board roles in September.
Next up, comments began for the board filling the superintendent role full-time. Karyn Rudak, a middle school English teacher with the district since 2000, voiced support for Interim Superintendent Chris Salani continuing his duties.
“If has to address something, he addressing something with professionalism and confidentiality. He’s also fair. I’ve talked to some people who are concerned, that if Chris becomes the superintendent the schools will be all about athletics. I’ve told those individuals that Chris is the A.D. as well as the High School Principal those are two big hats to wear. And sometimes those things, may seem like it’s all he’s concerned about, but believe me he isn’t. I’ve felt a lot of ways with Chris, and I can say he’s got the best interest of the district at heart. In my eyes, Chris has fulfilled his duties, and if you asked other teachers they would say the same thing.” Karyn Rudak, English Teacher, Hancock Middle School
With a full board, Hancock Schools can begin its search for a new superintendent. Board President Catherine Jordan told the other trustees the district has been contacted by outside hiring firms willing to help; As well as the Michigan Association of School Boards. Who regularly help school districts in the state through similar hires. President Jordan says that the school has the option to work with the association and that the work session scheduled for last night is a free consultation they offer too school districts.
“MASB does also offer an executive search service. This workshop is complimentary. It’s not a sales pitch they tell me, but they do offer other services. I did get some information about a grant we can apply to for 1,500 dollars to use towards MASB services if we decide to do that.”
The board additionally approved the high school and middle school student handbooks and the district’s curriculum. As well as approved several staff hires in time for the start of the school year. A final item sought the board’s approval for new equipment for SRO Officer Olsen.
After its regular agenda was completed, the board began its work session with the MASB.
