The most recent meeting of the Mat-Su Borough School Board featured major changes at the top of both the board and school district staff.
Before last Wednesday’s school board meeting, one departure was expected. Dr. Donna Dearman, who has served six years on the board, including in her current position as president, is not running to retain her seat. Throughout the evening, administrators and board members thanked her for her years of service to the district.
The surprise came from a motion to amend the contract of Superintendent Monica Goyette.
Before the public meeting, members of the school board held a private executive session to discuss the superintendent’s contract. While deliberations within an executive session are secret, any action taken must be done in public. The amendment ends Dr. Goyette’s contract as superintendent at the end of the current school year. She will then be placed within the district as principal of an unspecified large elementary school. There was little public comment on the move, and no public discussion from the board.
The contract amendment passed nearly unanimously, with only Ole Larson voting against the measure. While there was no discussion prior to the vote, some board members commented on the decision at the end of the meeting. Board member Ray Michaelson expressed sadness that Dr. Goyette will be leaving her current post.
“So I’m feeling a little a little sad about that. But I think we’ll be able to forge ahead and kind of open up a new day here, and have some time to think about what course we want to take as a board, and kind of open up a new day here and have some time to think about what course we want to take as a board.”
Board member Kelsey Trimmer also expressed sadness that Superintendent Goyette’s contract was shortened.
“I’m also pretty sad about the superintendent’s shortening of the contract, and I also wish Dr. Goyette the best and I know that this is what’s good for her, also.”
Dr. Donna Dearman used her final words as school board president to thank those with whom she served, and to express support for Dr. Goyette.
“During my tenure, I’ve had the pleasure of working with three superintendents. It is my opinion as board president that the Mat-Su Borough School District is being guided by a strong, forward thinking, dynamic Superintendent Dr. Monica Goyettte.”
Dr. Dearman also gave an admonition to current and future school board members regarding the responsibilities of the position.
“I want to thank my fellow board members, past and present, for their time and energy. From some of you, I have learned a great deal. I would like to remind you that while you occupy your seat, please commit to doing good work for all those, especially the students and the Mat-Su. Put aside your personal beliefs, political affiliations, and ambitions. This seat is not about you. It is not a stepping stone to some higher office. Rather it is about the future–our future–the future of the students we took an oath to serve and protect.”
Three school board seats are up for election on November 5th. The next meeting of the Mat-Su Borough School Board is scheduled for November 20th.
