Bremen Elementary honors retiring staff Frances Derbyshire and Becky Pio

The Fairfield Union Local School District Board convened on March 10, 2025, to address several significant personnel changes, including retirements and new appointments, during their regular meeting.

The meeting began with heartfelt acknowledgments of staff retirements. Frances Derbyshire, the head cook at Bremen Elementary, was recognized for her years of service. Board members expressed their gratitude for her contributions, noting the impact she has had on the school community. A motion to approve her retirement was unanimously passed.

Following this, the board discussed the resignation of Becky Pugh, a rescue aide at the middle school, effective June 30, 2025. Her dedication to student support and office functions was highlighted, with board members expressing their sadness at her departure. A motion to accept her resignation was also unanimously approved.

The meeting then turned to the retirement of Matt McPhail, the high school principal, effective July 31, 2025. McPhail's leadership over the past eight years was praised for improving academic performance and fostering a positive school culture. His contributions to the expansion of college credit courses and overall student engagement were particularly noted. McPhail expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and acknowledged the support he received from colleagues. The board unanimously approved his retirement.

In a related discussion, the board addressed the resignation of Travis Schaffer, the assistant principal, also effective July 31, 2025. Schaffer was recognized for his impactful role in the district and his future potential as the incoming principal. A motion to approve his resignation was passed unanimously.

The board concluded with a motion to approve a three-year administrative contract for Travis Schaffer as the new high school principal, starting August 1, 2025. Board members expressed confidence in Schaffer’s abilities to lead the school and build upon the foundation laid by McPhail. The motion was unanimously approved.

Overall, the meeting underscored a significant transition within the Fairfield Union Local School District, with a focus on honoring dedicated staff members while preparing for future leadership.