School board approves personnel slate, confirms HR director and accepts board member's resignation amid questions over process

At its April meeting the Susquehanna Township School District board approved a package of personnel and finance items, took a separate contested vote to appoint a director of human resources, and accepted the resignation of board member Steve Johnson.

After routine approval of the agenda and minutes, the board voted to approve a slate of personnel items (A'F) by roll call. Item 7H (approval of Dr. Eric Willis as director of human resources) was considered separately. One board member told the record they would vote against the appointment because they were "not convinced that the district has found the correct value for the contracts" and cited concerns about the process. The roll call shows Miss Hatcher voted "no" on 7H, while other members voted yes and the motion passed.

The board also approved finance and contract items including purchases of classroom devices. Trustees asked administration whether device purchases included extended service coverage; staff replied Apple Care covers a one-year warranty and district procurement staff will clarify ongoing service provisions.

In public comment, Diane White, a Susquehanna Township grandparent, asked whether the district could study an alternative afternoon car-rider loop at Sarah Lindammouth so parents could remain in their vehicles during pickup. District staff said the district had previously examined loop changes and bus conflicts and agreed to follow up to review feasibility.

Board member Steve Johnson announced his resignation at the meeting, saying the position conflicted with an opportunity he had been offered and that this session would be his final meeting. The board moved to accept his resignation "with regret," offered tributes, and approved the acceptance by roll call.

Board leadership said they will post the vacancy and accept applications, then conduct interviews with the goal of filling the seat in the coming weeks, subject to the board's posting and interview timelines.

Votes at a glance

- Agenda approval: passed by roll call (unanimous yes recorded) - Minutes (prior meetings): approved - Personnel slate (A'F): approved by roll call - Personnel item 7H (Dr. Eric Willis, director of human resources): approved; Miss Hatcher recorded a "no" vote; one board member announced opposition on process/contract grounds - Finance and contracts (multiple items, including device purchases): approved - Acceptance of Steve Johnson's resignation: approved by roll call (motion passed)

The district said it will follow up publicly on the car-rider pickup request and on details of procurement warranties for device purchases.