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Board replaces Olsen; Dell'Oso submits resignation

by jmaloni

Lewiston-Porter BOE

Sat, Sep 25th 2010 10:10 am
by Janet Schultz

Lewiston-Porter Superintendent of Schools Christopher Roser addressed those attending the Lew-Port School Board meeting Tuesday night following several speakers who were asking for the re-hiring of last year's varsity softball coach, Justalene Olsen.

The board went into executive session just prior to the personnel section of the agenda. When they reconvened, they appointed Nina Calarco in a 5-0-1 vote. April Fideli abstained.

The situation stems from what Olsen said involves a parent volunteer who she dismissed.

Parents and players supported Olsen, remarking that she was an ideal female role model for the players.

"When have parents ever been part of the hiring of a coach?" Roser asked. "Never."

"We make these decisions based on what's best for the kids," he continued. "I told the board they might not like some of things I do, because I won't be backed into a decision."

Roser went on to explain that the Lew-Port administration takes the recommendations they receive, they see what goes on day to day in their buildings, and then decide what is best for the students.

Calarco's appointment as varsity softball coach is for this academic year.

Other appointments made were Amanda Burdick, production technician; Lorraine Yaeger, Library Club co-advisor; and Tina Rodriguez, junior varsity softball coach.

They also approved the retirements of Michael Townsend, art teacher; Janette Mathews, mathematics; and Frank Scelsa, English. They will retire at the end of the school year.

"These people have a lot of experience and a long history with Lew-Port," said Roser. "They will be missed."

The three retirees represent more than 110 years of service to Lewiston-Porter. The board expressed their thanks and appreciation to the educators.

The board also accepted the resignation of Middle School Principal Vincent Dell'Oso effective Oct. 22. Dell'Oso has accepted a position with the West Seneca School District. The board expressed their best wishes to Dell'Oso in his new position.

In other business, the board accepted the contract for management of the concession stand by Sodexo and appointed board member Wendy Swearingen as the Lewiston-Porter representative to the Niagara/Orleans School Boards Association.

Each principal reported a smooth and good start to the new year, noting that Spirit Week is Sept. 27 to Oct. 1.

News and Notes

There are 11 German students visiting Lew-Port for two weeks. Lew-Port music instructor Kevin Duncan is currently teaching in China on an exchange program with a Chinese instructor teaching at Lew-Port.

Lew-Port will be inducting four alumni into the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame, and retiring the football jersey of Jonathan Miller at separate ceremonies to be held next week.

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