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MiddletownJournal.com

Kesselring staying on the job

Jan Kesselring isn't retiring after all.

Kesselring, superintendent of Madison schools, was expected to retire then be rehired Monday night during the board meeting.

"Mrs. Kesselring is not retiring," Board President Lisa Macy said.

There was silence in the room full of attendees. Nothing was said by the school board, Kesselring, or the community in regard to why Kesselring changed her decision.

However, resident Amy Schenck asked Kesselring why she decided not to retire.

"I'm just curious to know," she said.

"I don't think it is good timing," Kesselring said. "I think the community has spoken very loud and clear, and out of respect for the good of the bigger organization, I chose not to."

As a result of Kesselring's decision, the district will continue to honor her contract for 2 1/2 more years, paying her about $99,980 a year, including benefits.

Kesselring was one of three district employees who were expected to retire and be rehired. Carol Pieratt, administrative secretary at Madison Primary, and Ruby Elam, executive secretary administration, were the others. The board unanimously approved the resignation and rehiring of Pieratt and Elam, a move that should save the district about $18,000 a year.

In other business, the board said farewell to board members Alberta Derrough, who has served on the board for 26 years, and Macy, who served for nine years. They were presented gifts by Kesselring.

The board set the January board meeting dates — Jan. 9 will be the organizational meeting and the new board members will be sworn in, and the regular meeting will be Jan. 23.