Board accepts administrator resignation, appoints William Moore interim junior–senior high principal

The Salem Central School District Board accepted the resignation of an administrator effective June 30, 2024, and approved an unpaid leave of absence for William Moore from his special‑education teacher and athletic‑director roles so he can serve as interim junior–senior high principal for the 2024–25 school year at $108,000.

The superintendent told the board the resignation allows the district to post and conduct a 4–6 week search; she described the interim appointment as a way to ensure continuity and to give Mr. Moore “a chance to basically have an on the job interview” while the district evaluates options for administrative structure. The superintendent said posting external administrative vacancies in the summer can produce a small candidate pool, so the interim appointment would also permit a phased transition and listening sessions with faculty and staff before a permanent hire.

Board members discussed potential impacts and the timeline for appointment. One public commenter noted the sensitivity of moving a union member into an evaluation role and urged caution; the board acknowledged there will be a formal process for expression of interest or application should Mr. Moore want the permanent job. The motion to approve the unpaid leave and interim appointment was seconded and approved on the record.

What’s next: The district plans to post the administrative vacancy, conduct stakeholder listening sessions in late June, and aim for a permanent appointment no earlier than mid‑to‑late August with an anticipated effective start after customary notice periods in September or October.