Board cuts Reelsville educator

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Only nine months after being recalled, The South Putnam Community School Corp. board voted in favor of not renewing the contract of sixth grade Reelsville Elementary teacher Marc Hendrickson.

Recently, the board voted 4-1 in favor to place Hendrickson in non-renewal status through the Reduction in Force (RIF) process.

Hendrickson was not at the meeting. However, SPCSC Supt. Bruce Bernhardt said he had spoke with Hendrickson and said the teacher understood the situation.

Bernhardt said Hendrickson did not request a formal hearing.

"In no way is this a reflection of his teaching skills," Bernhardt said. "I think a lot of him. This is just one of those numbers things we have to go through."

Bernhardt said Hendrickson -- who has been with the corporation for four years -- went through the same process last year, but was recalled.

Bernhardt told the board recently that there were two reasons behind placing Hendrickson in non-renewal status, including enrollment and the corporation's current financial situation.

He said the corporation's current enrollment projections for next year compared to the total number of teachers leaves SPCSC with one too many teachers.

He added Hendrickson could be recalled if other teachers leave or retire in addition the state's decision on full-day kindergarten. Bernhardt said the state could require the corporation add an additional teacher with the implementation of full-day kindergarten.

"He could be recalled and he understands that," Bernhardt said. "There are a multitude of possibilities that could change his status."

Following Bernhardt's recommendation to place Hendrickson on non-renewal status, board member Nancy Wells motioned to accept with Dale Mendenhall giving the second.

Board member Steve Cash voted against the measure.

"I oppose these scenarios," Cash said of his vote. "I do not support it."

Bernhardt said Hendrickson would be the first teacher recalled if the corporation is able to do so.

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