With some controversy and a mixed vote, West Middlesex Area School Directors Monday decided to open the position of superintendent to new applicants. Superintendent Al Jones would also be eligible to apply.

The board voted 5 to 3 to open the position with directors Walter Gelesky, Connie David, Dale Shrawder, Warden Burger and President Thomas Hubert voting yes. Arlene Repko, Marshall Campbell and Glen Allen Jr. voted no. Director Kevin Kirk was not at the meeting.

"I feel this is a big step to take," Mrs. Repko said. She said she's appalled that the board didn't discuss the matter more or meet with Jones to talk about his intentions for possible retirement.

"We have executive sessions all the time for things that seem trivial or unimportant," she said. Mrs. Repko said she thinks the vote is a result of some people trying to make a statement before the upcoming school board election.

"Mr. Jones is a professional. He knows how his contract works. He knows very well what we have to do," Gelesky said. "If you want to call it blindsiding or politics so be it."

Solicitor John Reed said if the board doesn't make a decision on Jones' contract before June the contract will automatically renew for five more years.

"The board is compelled to take action," Reed said. "This is not to be considered as an attack or criticism of his performance. It's not a sign the board doesn't support him."

Resident Bob Boitnott asked why administrative salaries for next year are going to increase a large amount.

Financially the district has an obligation to pay out a certain amount of money to Jones at the end of his employment. That amount is close to $272,000 in the worst case scenario, Reed said. The money is for things like unused personal and vacation days and perfect attendance.

Boitnott asked if any money had been set aside since the board knew Jones eventually would leave the district. Hubert said it had not because no one requested the money be set aside.

Boitnott then asked Jones why no money had been set aside.

Jones responded with a "no comment."

Gelesky said the decision on the contract is about money. Burger and Hubert agreed.

"This has to do with the position and what this district can afford," Burger said. "It has absolutely nothing to do with Mr. Jones."

"It's an expense we can't afford any more," Hubert said. He said the status of Jones' employment will have a large impact on the upcoming 2003-04 budget.

Jones' 5-year contract will expire in June 2004, and his salary will be $107,000 for the final year.

Jones made a brief statement in which he said he is proud of his accomplishments and will continue to serve the district to the best of his ability. He said he appreciates the support he has received.

Directors are expected to vote on a first reading of the budget at the May meeting. The final budget must be approved by June 30.

You can e-mail Herald Staff Writer Kristen Garrett at:
kgarrett@sharonherald.com