Resignation Leads To Reappointment At RSCD

The Richfield Springs Board of Education filled a vacancy by reappointing a Board member who lost in the May election.

Board member Scot Mondore resigned effective immediately at the Board’s June 10 meeting.

He was not at the meeting Smith, who came in second behind Larry Bohling for the seat on the Board in May, was prepared to have the June 10 meeting be his last after 18 years as a Board member.

He was thanked by fellow Board members for his service.

At the end of the meeting Superintendent Tom Piatti, who retired at the end of June, announced that Mondore had resigned.

Piatti thanked him for his years on the Board.

Board President Nancy Duevel asked Smith if he would be will to serve on the Board in the absence of Mondore.

Smith said he would consider the offer.

Board members had a special meeting June 17.

Duevel read a statement from the Richfield Springs Faculty Association in support of appointing Smith to the vacancy.

Board member Rebecca Marzeski expressed concern with the appointment process.

She made a motion to table the action item but failed to get a second of support to call for a vote.

Marzeski said the motion to table would allow for feedback from voters and new Superintendent Dr. Jessica Poyer, who began her duties July 1.

Marzeski said a delay would allow to see who in the community might be interested in the position.

She asked why it was being rushed, saying it was possible Smith would be elected by the Board.

She said the Board needed to be concerned about being transparent. Smith was appointed to fill the term through June 2027.

In May next year the remaining time on the term will be on the ballot.

Duevel, Smith and Michelle Zuba voted in favor of Smith’s one-year appointment. Marzeski abstained.

Four members of the public ...