Keroack declines schools top post
Published on January 21st, 1998
STONEHAM, MA - Stoneham School Asst. Supt. Dr. Elizabeth Keroack has turned down the opportunity to replace the Supt. Dr. Ellen Bueschel, who announced her resignation Thursday night.
Keroack was reportedly offered the position during contract bargaining in executive session following last Thursday's School Committee meeting.
"I'm flattered, but given the passage of the $39.5 million renovation project, the range of skills required by the next superintendent will be a little bit different than those that were necessary prior to the upcoming construction project," said Keroack, who arrived in Stoneham in August of 1995. "My first responsibility is to look at what the system needs and how well served I would be. The School Committee would be better served to look outside for a candidate with an expert financial management interest and experience in major building projects."
Although she did work with architects during her years in the Methuen School System and there will likely be a Clerk of Works on the Stoneham project, the next superintendent will still be very active in overseeing the 8-year project.
"I do not believe I would be the best candidate for the particular demands that are now needed," said Keroack. "It's just not the appropriate time. In fact, by my staying put may actually bring more stability to the operation."
School Committee Chairman Stephen Gucciardi said Keroack's decision not to take the position should not be viewed negatively.
"We have full confidence in Elizabeth, but she is currently enjoying what she is doing," said Gucciardi. "She is the best curriculum person any of us have ever run into."
With the state's curriculum frameworks ever changing, Stoneham will continue to thrive from Keroack's expertise, according to Gucciardi.
The School Committee chairman said they hope to have an interim superintendent on board by March 1. The School Committee has already contacted the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, which has an active list of candidates interested in short-term assignments. Normally those candidates are retired school superintendents.
The School Committee hopes to choose a Screening Committee at one of their two February meetings.
Subscribe and get Home Delivery of The Independent
Save 36% off the newstand price — that's like 18 FREE issues!