Kline to handle some superintendent's duties

Orcas High School Principal Barbara Kline will take over many of the superintendent's duties while the board continues its search for a replacement for Barry Acker. Her title will be transition team leader, howevber, not superintendent.

But Kline, who offered to help with administration after Acker resigned last March, has no interest in becoming the chief administrative officer of the school district. "I have not applied for the job," she said matter-of-factly.

Kline made the offer because, she said, many things need to be addressed prior to summer, when an interim superintendent is likely to be on board. Among these are preparing the 2005-06 budget. Her offer is expected to be formally accepted by the school board when it meets on April 27.

School Board President Bruce Orchid said the appointment will benefit the school. "I'm happy to have Barbara, as a professional with solid grounding in the school," he explained.

Orchid will also help with administration of the school district. Many of his duties will involve implementation of the improvements to the school facility funded by a bond that was approved by local voters last November. He will also participate in labor negotiations with the unions that represent school staff.

Kline will not be receiving any additional money even though her work load will be bigger, as she will continue to perform many of her duties at the high school.

She has, however, asked the board to increase her salary. That request has yet to be considered by the board.

Orcas physical education teacher Dennis Dahl will help with administration at the high school while Kline is at the district office. He too will not receive any extra compensation, but several of his classes will be picked up by fellow P.E. teacher Dan Drake.

Athletic Director Jaylin Peacock will oversee staff members who care for the grounds. She will be compensated for the additional work. Kline said this could become a permanent role because the athletic department is most concerned about the condition of the grounds.

Meanwhile, the search for an interim superintendent continues. Board members will soon be interviewing prospective candidates, Orchid said. However, many won't be available before the end of the academic year.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read.