RANGELEY – A proposal to restructure the School Union 37 superintendent’s position sparked a debate by the board Tuesday night.

Superintendent Kenneth Coville, who resigned in January and leaves in July, now spends 10 percent of his time as principal for the ninth through 12th grades.

School board Chairman Harold Schaetzle recommended reducing the superintendent’s job to one to three days a week and hiring a vice principal.

The superintendent’s job description, under Schaetzle’s proposal, would include the administration of school contracts, school representation at a regional level, and oversight of teacher certifications and administration of the school budget. The position of vice principal would be overseen by Principal Donald Salm and provide support for day-to-day school operations, curriculum development, discipline and school administration.

According to Schaetzle, the goal is to “continue to support teachers where they need it.” The proposal “would shift responsibilities from the upper levels.”

Board member Russ Brooks described the proposal as “putting more people down in the trenches.”

Coville said, “The state average for a vice principal salary would range from $45,000 to $60,000” but would vary widely based on job expectations and responsibilities.

No figures were given for a part-time superintendent.

If accepted, Rangeley taxpayers would bear the majority of the costs for the assistant principal, while plantations may see a reduction in their tax burden with a part-time superintendent.

Ginny Nuttall, former interim principal for the Rangeley Lakes Regional School, said the board “should do needs assessment, as well as to determine what the goals and purpose of the restructuring are.”

Robin George echoed her comment. “A needs assessment is a prudent and just process,” she said.

“I am a parent, a teacher and a member of the community,” George said. “I have every reason to be concerned and I have every right to express my opinions. I want the best education for my own children, the children in my classroom and the children in the community.”

Schaetzle said, “There has been no forum to lay this out. It may need to be assessed and changed.

After criticism from the board, he responded, “I need to communicate more broadly with the board and that point is well taken.”

No action was taken on the matter.

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