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TOP STORY OF THE DAY, brought to you free by WICU: Szabo to lead NCMS; Fritz sets retirement date
Clay Community School Board of Trustees announced the new principal and accepted a bittersweet announcement during its monthly meeting.
Northview Assistant Principal John Szabo was confirmed as the new North Clay Middle School at the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year. Szabo replaces Chris Ross, who will be taking on the position of the Director of Human Resources.
The position was vacated after the unexpected death of Ernie Simpson in February.
The crowd applauded the unanimous decision, as the board said it would be impressive to see Szabo bring his coaching spirit and skills to the students at NCMS.
Superintended Jeff Fritz presented his notification to retire after the 2022-2023 contract year.
“I have come to realize that I have spent more than 40 years as an employee of Clay Community Schools,” said Fritz, adding that doesn’t count his time as a preschooler or in college. “I have certainly enjoyed my time here in the classrooms, hallways, and Central Office of Clay Community Schools. I have truly been blessed.”
Fritz thanked the students, colleagues, and board for working together as a school family and being a shining light in the Wabash Valley.
The board members agreed reluctantly to accept Fritz’s notice.
“If there is anyone who deserves it, it is you, sir,” said board member Dr. Michael Shaw. “Thank you. You have earned some time with your family.”
Board President Tom Reberger said the board had undoubtedly been blessed to work with Fritz.
“Going to miss you, Jeff, but we still have two years to work together,” said Charley Jackson. “This is a great place to work.”
In other business, the board approved:
No one attended the time allowed for public comment regarding the ESSER allocations before the start of Thursday’s meeting.
“This year, summer school is not a penalty,” said Reberger about the robust plans for summer school to combat the learning loss due to COVID-19. “Summer school is an opportunity for every child who wants to attend and improve in areas they feel they need help. It’s going to be a good program; it’s a chance to catch up and do better.”
Director of Business Affairs Mark Shayotovich’s proposal for the corporation’s banking to be done at First Financial Bank,
Van Buren Elementary announced the students had named the dog “Journey” during an election. The board will be considering this proposal at next month’s board meeting.
The regular monthly meeting of the Clay Community School Board of Trustees starts at 7 p.m. the second Thursday in the Board Room at Central Administrative Office, located at 1013 S. Forest Avenue. Brazil.