Board approves independent evaluator for APPR observations and amends employment agreement

The Salem Central School District Board approved the appointment of Abigail as an independent evaluator, effective May 29, 2024, to perform required unannounced observations under the district’s APPR process and to meet contractual deadlines.

The superintendent explained that due to the district’s size and principals’ workloads the district had fallen behind on required observations and that an independent evaluator — someone who does not report directly to building principals — is needed to complete the unannounced observations required by the APPR agreement. “The unannounced observation is to be performed according to the APPR agreement…by an independent evaluator,” the superintendent said while noting Abigail meets the certification criteria.

Separately, the board considered and approved an amendment to an employment agreement dated May 28, 2024, revising terms and conditions for the employee identified in the agenda; the amendment text was attached to the meeting materials. The motion to approve both items was seconded and carried on the record.

What’s next: The independent evaluator will carry out observations needed to fulfill contractual obligations and the administration will file required forms with the state; the board asked staff to include the amendment and evaluator details in the minutes.