Board approves $500/day per‑diem administrator for middle school after heated debate

The Carmel Central School District Board of Education voted Jan. 21 to approve hiring Jeffrey Notto as a per‑diem substitute administrator at $500 per day, effective Jan. 8, 2025, after an extended debate over whether the temporary hire effectively restores an administrator eliminated in last year—s budget.

Trustee Curzio opposed the measure, saying the item reintroduces an administrator before the community has an opportunity to weigh in at the ballot box in May. Curzio outlined the arithmetic of per‑diem costs — $2,500 per week, roughly $10,000 a month — and estimated up to $60,000 if the arrangement continued for six months. Other trustees described significant attrition at George Fisher Middle School this year and said the interim administrative support is needed to address disciplinary and safety concerns in halls and cafeterias.

Supporters called the per‑diem arrangement a cost‑effective, immediate way to add manpower and stabilize the building without offering benefits to an interim hire. The superintendent said the district had eliminated a director of HR position earlier and that this action retargets administrative capacity to a building in crisis. The superintendent added the per‑diem assignment helps "get the middle school to a baseline" and that resources had been redirected rather than creating net new district headcount.

After discussion, the roll call vote recorded Trustee Curzio voting no; Trustees Douglas, Paraskeva, Wise, and Vice President Dahl voted yes; the motion passed 4–1.

The board also discussed how the decision relates to last year—s budget choices. Multiple trustees emphasized that last year—s vote to reduce administration was deliberate and that restoring roles prior to the budget vote merits community notice. Supporters countered that the hiring is a temporary measure tied to building safety concerns.

What happens next: The per‑diem administrator assignment begins immediately; the board and administration said they will monitor the position and report back as part of building support and budget planning discussions.

Votes at a glance (selected personnel items from Jan. 21 meeting): 6.10 — Timothy Wade appointment (approved, roll call 5–0); 6.11 — Aubrey Dahl substitute (approved, roll call); 6.12 — Michelle Connors assistant girls lacrosse coach (approved; Trustee Curzio abstained); 6.13 — Ryan Dahl assistant baseball coach (approved); 6.14 — Jeffrey Notto per‑diem administrator (approved 4–1).