School district superintendent's contract renewed for one year

The Churchill County School Board of Trustees voted to renew Superintendent Carolyn Ross' contract for one year after discussion at a board meeting Thursday night.

Board members discussed the contract in July. However, no action was taken.

Trustee Dave Ash said approving a renewal of Ross' contract should be an opportunity for the board to make a statement regarding her performance.

"We're either confident or we are not," he said. "We need to be a team and we need to show that we have the confidence in our administration."

Trustee Rich Gent suggested the board regularly give feedback to inform the superintendent of their opinions.

Trustee Ron Evans said he felt uncomfortable making a decision with so little time on the board.

"I've only been doing this for eight months," he said. "I feel uncomfortable voting on a contract that I have not been able to view for a year. I don't have enough experience in what I am doing."

Ash said community relations between the community and superintendent were bad previously, and Ross has brought many people together in the district.

"She's lead us in a good direction," he said. "I would be willing to renew her contract for one year."

Ash said the renewal should be based on her ability as well as her character. The evaluation should match the contract and performance.

Gent asked if approving the contract for an additional year would set a precedent in renewing other district contracts before they are due.

Sharla Hales, legal counsel for the board, said it would not set a precedent.

Trustee Tom Riggins said he had received several e-mails on her performance.

"Things could not be better at this point. History is rearing its head here," he said. "I think it's going to take a little time to get passed that."

Riggins was referring to the contract renewal of former Superintendent Donn Livoni. The school district bought out his contract in 2005. The decision came after problems arose with his performance and issues with employees in the district, according to previous LVN articles.

"I still think it's too early. I think we should review it in January. We got stung. I've gotten things from the community, good and bad," Trustee Lou Buckmaster said.

The vote passed six to one with Buckmaster opposing the motion.

Ross made no comments during the discussion.