Also, Junior/Senior High School principal receives a $3,000 raise
By JESSICA BRICKER
The superintendent of Southern Wells Community Schools has resigned.
At the end of Tuesday’s school board meeting, Brian Sloan submitted his letter of resignation to take an opportunity closer to home. His last day with the district is June 30 and the start date of his new job — which was not announced — is July 5.
“This opportunity just presented itself over the last several weeks, and it’s one that I’m choosing to do, and ultimately need to do what’s best for me and my family,” Sloan said.
Chad Roush, speaking as a taxpayer and board member, said he was sorry to see Sloan leave.
“I think you did a great job,” Roush said. “Sorry the road was rocky.”
Aaron Westfall added that he appreciated the professionalism that Sloan brought to the position. He later said “no” when a vote was called to accept Sloan’s resignation.
Sloan was hired at SWCS in mid-2020. He previously worked in central Indiana for Hamilton Southeastern Schools and Fishers Elementary School.
Board President Kevin Scott said the board will soon be advertising the position opening, as well as a timeline for those interested in applying.
Just before announcing his resignation, Sloan asked — and received the board’s unanimous support — for a $3,000 raise for Junior/Senior High School Principal Kim Conner.
Last December, the contracts for the district’s principals were renewed during a tense meeting. At that time, Sloan noted Conner was making $3,000 less than that position typically paid.
“As I have advocated with the board in the past, and I have continued these discussions with you, in regards to my belief that the head principal of our junior/senior high school’s salary should be increased to reflect the significant time and evening commitment the position requires,” Sloan’s notes in Tuesday’s meeting agenda said. “Previous head principals in this position have made $3,000 more than the elementary principal as one way to recognize the significant difference between the two positions and the evening commitments required of the junior/senior high principal position.”
Conner’s base salary is now $91,152 paid retroactively to the start of the current year’s contract, Sloan said.
Earlier during Tuesday’s meeting, parent Shawna Neuenschwander urged the board and the superintendent to look into concerns parents and staff continue to have with high school administrators.
jessica@news-banner.com
