C-I to start interviews for new chief

CROSBY -- The Crosby-Ironton School Board agreed Monday to begin the interviewing process for a superintendent.

The district received five applications and decided to interview four candidates. The board also agreed to spend no more than $500 to be used for travel expenses for the candidates.

Chairman Scott Kile said the board will choose a group of parents, students, administrators and staff members to help with the interviewing process. The groups then will give their recommendations to the board for it to make its final decision. The district hopes to have a permanent superintendent in place by January.

"We were fairly impressed with the candidates that applied," said Pat DeSutter of Anderson, DeSutter and Miller, a search firm hired to help C-I find a superintendent, because of the timing of the position. Most superintendents already have contracts with school districts.

"We don't want to rush this," said Mike Domin, board member. "This is a very important decision."

Board members voted 5-1 to increase the number of girls' and boys' basketball games by four, as long as it is at no cost to the district. Board member Carol Anne Hales was against the motion.

The Minnesota State High School League now allows up to 26 contests. These games most likely will be played on Saturdays.

Dave Galovich, head boys' basketball coach, said he asked the students whether they wanted the additional games and they said they do. Students were also willing to raise money to help pay the finances for the additional contests, the coach said. Transportation and hiring officials for the extra games would be the main costs.

John Davis, board member, said if the students want the extra games and are willing to raise money, he sees no reason not to allow the extra contests.

Mike Kneeland, board member, said he has no problems with the four extra games, as long as the district does not have to pay any of the additional expenses. He was concerned about the referendum and said the board has to be careful on how to spend its money.

"If we take any money out of the budget, we will be shooting ourselves in the foot," he said.