JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (WDRB) –- Parents and teachers voiced their support for an embattled superintendent in southern Indiana.
The Greater Clark County School Board has said it may not be able to afford to keep Stephen Daeschner unless he takes a cut to his $225,000 salary. But those who spoke Monday night said he's worth every penny.
"It's time we all stood up and said we're going to be counted. We're not going to accept it. We're not going to take it, and the hell with them," said Jeffersonville Mayor Tom Galligan.
Galligan helped bring Stephen Daeschner to Clark County in 2009, and he's not shy when it comes to his feelings about whether or not to keep him.
"Go to the school board meeting and tell them you've had enough," he said. "If you don't, you're going to keep getting the same old garbage. I'm tired. I don't know about you all, but I'm fed up with it."
Dozens of fellow supporters showed up Monday for a rally in support of the embattled superintendent. Greater Clark County is facing a $4 million budget shortfall for 2012. Daeschner makes $225,000 a year. He also proposed closing Maple Elementary to save money. That recommendation angered parents and teachers, and the school board eventually decided against it.
Supporters though point to improved test scores, and say that Daeschner's high salary pays dividends.
"Opportunity knocks sometimes once in a lifetime," said Insurance agent Welby Edwards. "Fortunately for me, a lifelong resident of Jeff, it knocked during this board's era when Steve Daeschner walked through the door. We've been blessed ever since."
The superintendent attended the rally, and said that if the district is willing to keep him, he's more than happy to stay.
"I'm very thankful to be here tonight," said Daeschner. "I'm very thankful for the support. But it isn't about me. It's about a district that basically grabbed it and said we can do it."
The Board says it will make a decision about whether or not to renew Daeschner's contract by December 20th.
