Two local school boards are in the process of a retire-rehire situation for their superintendents.
The Tecumseh Local Schools board approved the retire and rehire of Superintendent Paula Crew at its May meeting.
The Southeastern Local Schools board of education approved Superintendent David Shea’s retirement at its May meeting. The board will accept public comments on his rehire at the June meeting, and will vote on his rehire at the July meeting.
It’s not an uncommon practice in Ohio public education. Shea said, “for me, in totality, to work, I’d be looking at a 5-10 year window. I can see myself working another 10 years, who knows.”
Credit: Bill Lackey
Credit: Bill Lackey
Under Ohio law, the retire-rehire practice allows employees who meet retirement eligibility requirements to retire and then be rehired into their previous or a similar positions.
Tecumseh’s school board decided to approve Crew’s retire-rehire contract after “consideration around best interests” of students, staff and the community. President Sue Anne Martin said this process allows them to keep Crew’s “proven leadership while remaining fiscally responsible,” and are confident in her continued service.
“We are fortunate to have a superintendent who consistently demonstrates strong and compassionate leadership. Her deep commitment to our schools is evident across the district, county and state,” she said. “Her experience and knowledge of our district’s daily operations, paired with her dedication to advocating for the needs of our students, have made a meaningful difference in our schools. Under her leadership, we have seen thoughtful decision-making, strategic planning, and a genuine focus on what is best for children.”
Crew said this option offers advantages to school districts and communities, such as retaining experienced and effective staff members, people who have demonstrated their committed to students and their roles, and financial savings.
“Their continued service ensures consistency, quality, and institutional knowledge, all of which benefit student achievement and school culture,” she said. “Rehired employees typically return at a lower total cost to the district due to changes in retirement system contributions.”
The retire-rehire process includes a public notice and hearing, with each case considered individually based on the district’s needs and the value that staff member brings to its students.
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