Superintendent Lovejoy resigns at North Putnam
By LAUREN BOUCHER
Staff Writer
The North Putnam Community School Corporation held its monthly meeting on Thursday and what seemed like a typical meeting, became anything but as Superintendent Dr. Mary Sugg Lovejoy announced her resignation, effective June 30, 2012.
After being chosen from a field of eight candidates, Lovejoy was chosen to serve on the board in June 2009. Lovejoy previously served as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for Monroe County Schools in Bloomington after teaching in the elementary and high schools in both Avon and Brownsburg.
As Lovejoy began to read from a piece of paper listing the school's best accomplishments, it quickly became apparent there was another meaning to her speech.
"At this time I feel I have reached a point where I have accomplished all I can for the students of this corporation," said Lovejoy. "I appreciate your support along the way."
During the past two and a half years; Lovejoy said she has served the NPCSC with a goal of always focusing on what was best for the children. She has implemented several programs along with working closely with administrators and teachers to improve testing results.
"Our ISTEP+ and End-of-Course Assessment scores have risen dramatically over the last three years," Lovejoy said.
Lovejoy listed a series of accomplishments such as implementing the Olweus Bullying Program in 2010, the school's new rating of an "A" by the IDOE for Adequate Yearly Progress, as well as the $3.5 million debt that has been eliminated, making the corporation financially secure.
Lovejoy also made sure to keep the parents in mind by sending out a quarterly newsletter as well as having monthly superintendent coffees and parent workshops.
As the letter came to an end, Lovejoy stressed the importance of the Community Council as well as the importance of working to feed the chronically hungry.
"It is extremely important that the good work of the Community Council continue, and that we continue our partnership with area churches and Gleaners Food Bank in feeding the chronically hungry children and families of North Putnam," Lovejoy said.
Lovejoy ended her resignation by thanking Board President Debbie Sillery as well as all board members who stood by her side during challenging times.
"I wish my successor the best of luck in continuing the goals I set forward to act in the best interests of the students of North Putnam and their parents."
As Lovejoy concluded her resignation speech, board members thanked her for her three years of service. The board will be discussing possible options for her successor during December's meeting.