SALEM TOWNSHIP — SAD 58 directors decided Tuesday to advertise for a part-time athletic director and include money for that position in the 2014-15 budget.
Last year, it was decided to eliminate the combined position of athletic director and assistant principal at Mt. Abram High School in Salem Township. It was held by Jeff Pillsbury, who became principal at Phillips Elementary School. He has continued some athletic director duties for a stipend.
Laura White, the high school secretary, and Cindy Dixon, the superintendent’s secretary, have received stipends to cover remaining duties associated with the position. High school Principal Marco Aliberti also has added athletic director duties to his schedule.
“It’s working, but just barely,” Superintendent Brenda Stevens said. “It’s not a long-term solution.”
Business Manager Luci Milewski told directors Tuesday that the $10,651 paid to Pillsbury, White and Dixon is from this year’s budget. Pillsbury said during sports seasons, he could spend many hours revising a schedule disrupted by weather-related cancellations.
“Realistically, we can’t hire by the hour,” director John Foss of Phillips said. “You can’t find somebody for five days a week for $10,000.”
Directors agreed to put $10,651 in the budget and advertise for a part-time athletic director. They declined to fund an assistant principal’s salary and benefits.
It does not mean a suitable candidate will be found, but directors agreed the position is necessary. Principal Aliberti said the district has at least two teachers with the required administration certification, but the positions of athletic director and assistant principal require people who are readily available. That could preclude classroom teachers from holding either position, he said.
Another budget workshop is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at Mt. Abram High School.
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