“I’ve seen an awful lot of stuff go on in Xenia,” said 31-year district employee Kelly Russell. “At the moment, my heart is very sad.”
Mark Manley, president of Xenia Education Association, said the noxious atmosphere surrounding the district could get in the way of a vote for new operating money: “We appeal directly to the sensibility to the board of education members in a spirit of justice, common sense, dignity, fairness and leadership that the board of education members set aside the frivolous and unnecessary retire/rehire of the district treasurer.”
Board President Barbara Stafford said the plan to retire and rehire Townsend is “legally allowable” and could save the district money. Superintendent Deborah Piotrowski said putting Overbeck on paid administrative leave two months before his retirement was a difficult decision. Overbeck — whose usual chair was empty Monday night — will get his full salary and benefits.
“It was anticipated that his duties would be transitioned over a period of time,” Piotrowski said. “We’re moving ahead of the anticipated schedule ... I decided to place Dr. Overbeck on paid administrative leave (May 20).
“This move is going to enable the administration to effectively plan for the next school year.”
Overbeck could not be reached for comment.
“All of you should be ashamed of yourselves to have allowed things to have gotten to this point,” Xenia resident Joe Chaffin told the board.
“As a board, you guys are failing. You need to stop the small-town politics, the nepotism, and start communicating on a one-on-one (basis).”
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