School committee approves administrator renewals; two members abstain amid process questions

The Lewiston school committee approved a slate of administrator contract renewals at its March 2 meeting after a brief public discussion about timing and process.

The superintendent explained the practice: renewals and non‑renewals for administrators are governed both by statute and by contractual timelines, and the administration times recommendations for renewal in early March. A committee member noted that the packet arrived late that day and asked whether the vote could wait; the superintendent said delaying the vote could create uncertainty for employees and that changing approved decisions would require due‑process steps.

After discussion, the committee voted by roll call to approve the renewals; the superintendent recorded the tally as seven in favor and two abstentions. Two members — one who said she had a lingering question she could not reasonably raise in open session — recorded an abstention. Members discussed avenues for raising concerns about employees (such as sharing concerns privately with the superintendent and follow‑up investigations) and the superintendent said staff would investigate any specific, documented concerns raised through the appropriate process.

What’s next: The superintendent said he would follow up on any specific member inquiries through personnel processes where appropriate. The committee asked administration to ensure future packet timing allows members adequate time to review personnel recommendations and to schedule executive sessions if members need to raise confidential personnel issues.