However, the firestorm of controversy did not stop at Dr. Bender’s departure. The hiring process for the new superintendent, involving the shortest superintendent search on record, fueled further discontent. The board’s apparent rush to appoint an incoming superintendent with significantly less experience than Dr. Bender was questioned, as was the new appointee’s career trajectory and commitment to the district.

Critics also raised the issue of stability within the school district. With non-tenured principals and key positions needing to be filled, the district could be facing a period of uncertainty. The community felt their preference for Dr. Bender and stability was ignored, intensifying allegations of the board’s lack of transparency and responsiveness to feedback.

Amidst the outcry, one board member voiced his support for the new superintendent, urging the public to give him an opportunity to prove his abilities. The newcomer’s salary was disclosed to be $207,500, with Dr. Bender staying within the district in an undetermined role.

The Board also discussed the rising cost of busing services, the need for a dedicated supervisor for the Early Childhood Program, and the district’s role in private scholarships, amongst other topics. Despite the numerous issues addressed, the focus remained firmly on the superintendent swap.

One unexpected proposal came from Miss Malu, who suggested a “Dream Team” partnership between the new superintendent and Dr. Bender, arguing that their combined innovation could uplift the district. Other community members also expressed their support for the incoming superintendent, despite reservations about the appointment process.

The newly-appointed superintendent, Dr. Vespignani, expressed his readiness to take on the district’s unique challenges. He pledged to do a lot of listening and learning and looked forward to working with the community.