School chief resigns post

NEW BREMEN - Superintendent Andrea Townsend announced she will resign her post with New Bremen Local Schools to take over as superintendent in West Carrollton.

West Carrollton school board president Roberta Phillips said members plan to hire Townsend at their regular meeting at 5 p.m. today. Townsend, in a letter to New Bremen school staff and board members, said she would accept the offer.

"Once the position is official, I will work with the Board to find my replacement," she wrote. "I will be here to ensure a smooth transition with the new superintendent as well as the building project."

She was referring to the proposed new K-8 building that would be constructed adjacent to the existing high school complex. A levy to help pay for construction will be on the May 2 primary election ballot.

If her contract is approved by the West Carrollton board tonight, Townsend will start working with the retiring superintendent Rusty Clifford on April 1, while continuing her position locally. Her official start date as the new superintendent will be Aug. 1.

Townsend has served as New Bremen superintendent for two years, having been selected for the position on March 30, 2015, and officially began work July 1 of that year.

According to West Carrollton board vice president Donald Henry, board members had received 16 applications and interviewed 10 candidates for the position.

Among her other qualifications, Townsend's background in mathematics education set her apart, Henry said. West Carrollton officials want the district to improve in that area.

Though West Carrollton's school district is bigger than New Bremen's, Henry said Townsend had experience working in larger districts such as Springfield's, though not as superintendent. Prior to her time at New Bremen, Townsend was employed at Springfield City Schools, where she directed their elementary education and student services. She has also been a teacher and principal in Florida and Maryland.

"It's hard to replace someone who's been in a position for 18 years, but I think she'll bring a new perspective," Henry said.

New Bremen school board members and Townsend were not available for comment at press time this morning. Townsend's secretary Kathy Neumeier said the superintendent was away from the office for training.