By JAN McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Bowling Green Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday evening to establish a salary schedule for Superintendent Ted Haselman.
When Haselman was hired as superintendent two years ago, there were no salary increases scheduled. The wording of the contract was along the lines of raises may be forthcoming based on his performance in the job, Haselman said Tuesday.
Based on the board’s action, it appears there are no reservations about his job performance.
“Ted’s made a huge difference to this district,” Board President Norm Geer said after the meeting. “We want to keep him. He’s our man.”
Haselman took over as district superintendent in August 2023, just three months shy of the controversial bond issue for a new high school. After four previous failed attempts to pass money for new facilities, the bond issue passed. Then this past month, the district passed a levy for operating expenses.
Haselman’s current annual salary is $158,100. The board approved 3% raises for the next five years. Norm said 3% is an industry average, and well deserved.
Also at Tuesday’s board meeting, the board heard an update on the new high school construction. Those attending the meeting likely noticed some changes when they arrived, Haselman said.
“Work is happening,” he said.
So far, the project is on schedule and on budget.
Drilling continues on the geothermal wells north of the new building, with 50 of the 140 wells being completed. The geothermal system will heat and cool the high school.
Stone has been spread for construction trailers, some trees have come down, and fencing will soon be put up around the perimeter. The district is still waiting on the steel and concrete package bids to all be submitted.
The district is continuing to hold several planning meetings, Haselman said.
“We only have one chance to get this right,” he said.
Later this week, school officials will meet with Bowling Green’s police and fire chiefs to discuss safety measures.
“This truly is a collaboration with the city – with student and staff safety in mind,” Haselman said.
After Tuesday’s meeting, Haselman said the district is also working with city officials, architects and the construction management team to best handle the start of the school year with construction going on next door.
“We want the least amount of congestion – recognizing it’s a construction site,” he said. “We are going to have to ask for patience.”
Also at the meeting, Treasurer Matt Feasel said he is considering changing the way school finances appear on the district’s website. While district residents have expressed appreciation for the detailed financial reports, Feasel said he plans to put the district checkbook in its own section on the website, so those interested don’t have to read through 50-plus pages to get to the checkbook.
In other business, the board voted to hire new staff, including:
- Benjamin Wagner as technology director.
- Andrew Lewis for orchestra.
- Isabella Ayers for middle school English.
- Chloe Beeker for high school English.
- Patricia Crawford as intervention specialist.
- Emily Trotter for preschool.
The board also accepted donations totaling $10,514 for the Crim Elementary playground, unpaid lunches and Bobcat Basics, girls soccer, FFA, school supplies, hygiene products, snacks, and a tree at Kenwood Elementary.
