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By Diana Bowley of the News Saff - DEXTER - Kevin Jordan, a local man who has served 18 years in education in SAD 4, was selected by SAD 46 directors on Wednesday as the new superintendent of schools. Jordan, 42, was one of 15 candidates and one of two finalists interviewed for the position being vacated by Lester Butler. His contract will run from July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2007. His salary was set at $78,000 for the 2005-2006 school year. Two directors - Brian Cole and Barbara Wakefield - opposed his selection. "We're really excited about moving now in a direction that can bring the school to the forefront," Director John Parola said after Wednesday's meeting. Jordan, who did not attend the meeting because he was en route home from an out-of-state conference, said late Wednesday night that he was looking forward to the position. "I think Dexter is a very unique opportunity," Jordan said. "The communities of the district are very passionate about education and I think it's going to be a great group to work with." Two issues that Jordan intends to tackle first include resolving the collective bargaining negotiations with teachers and "re-establish the positive, trusting relationship between the teachers and the district administration." The second push will be to move the new school project forward. Because of the change in the school funding formula, SAD 46 has a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to make that long-term investment in education and to take care of an aging facility, he said. Parola, who headed up the search committee, said the fact that Jordan advanced through the ranks having served as a teacher, athletic director, assistant principal and principal made him an appealing candidate. Because of his tenure in SAD 4 (Guilford region), Jordan has a background in new school construction, curriculum development and grant writing, Parola said. His guidance will be helpful as the district works through the new school construction process, he noted. The district is on the protected list for funding of a new school for kindergarten through grade eight. Board Chairman Melvin Johnson said Jordan was very professional, had a proven record of success and had a track record of community involvement. Another strong factor that played a role in Jordan's selection was his residency in Dexter, Parola added. |
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