Bill Hills and Judy Karp end service at board reorganization
By John Tredrea, Staff Writer
Kudos and rounds of applause were in order for Judy Karp and Bill Hills at Monday night’s school board meeting.
Ms. Karp and Mr. Hills, both of Hopewell Township, have decided not to seek re-election. Their seats on the board will be contested in next Tuesday’s election.
Mr. Hills, a former board president, was appointed to the board several months ago to complete the unexpired term of Carl Swanson, who resigned for health reasons.
Dr. Swanson spoke during the public hearing portion of Monday night’s meeting. “I’ve worked with both Judy and Bill and just wanted to thank them both for their fine services to the community.”
With his trademark wit that drew a roomful of laughter, Dr. Swanson declared that “two years on the board was like 10 years” anywhere else.
Kim Bruno and other district residents also publicly thanked Ms. Karp and Mr. Hills.
On Monday the board also handled personnel matters.
Hopewell Elementary teacher Sheila Auslander is retiring. She has been with the Valley school district since 1988. The 2007-2008 academic year will be her last one here. Formal acceptance of Ms. Auslander’s retirement, effective July 1, was among the personnel actions unanimously approved Monday.
The retirement of another veteran employee also was accepted. Jeanne Conner, secretary at the district’s administrative headquarters, will retire June 1. Ms. Conner has been with the district since 1997.
The board also appointed David Raduzycki as head custodian at Central High School, effective last Tuesday (April 8), at an annual salary of $46,403.
Appointed Spanish-French teacher at Timberlane Middle School was John Lissaris, for the 2008-2009 school year at an annual salary of $61,922. Mr. Lissaris has a master’s degree.
Central High School teacher Jennifer Walsh was granted a family leave of absence, effective March 19 through June 19.
Three resignations were accepted: Central High teacher Ken Elpus, effective Aug. 31; Timberlane teacher Nora Bowers, effective July 1; and Timberlane teacher Rebecca Elpus, effective Aug. 31.