Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
PIERCETON - Dr. Diana Showalter, Whitko Community School Corp.'s director of curriculum, can be taken off the Whitko's superintendent candidate list.
She was named Manchester Community School's new superintendent Monday. She replaces Connie Curry, who was asked to resign in June 2001.
Dr. William Worl, Whitko's current superintendent until July 1, said Showalter will continue at Whitko until June 30. The Whitko School board is continuing its search for a new superintendent, he said. Interviews were conducted Monday and Tuesday and more will be held today in executive session at 5:30 p.m. After these interviews are completed, a short list of candidates will be compiled and then more interviews will be held. By the end of April, Worl said, the school board hopes to announce the new superintendent.
With any change of leadership, Worl said, there will be changes overall. If both the superintendent and director of curriculum are replaced, Worl said, changes can be expected, but are difficult to predict.
As for Showalter, Worl said, "She's been a key proponent with our program here in the school district." One of her focuses was on grant applications and awards, which are key. He said she's a valued person and will be missed.
Showalter has been with Whitko schools since 1997. She served as principal and teacher previously in North Manchester and at Brown and Wabash county schools. She earned her master's degree from Indiana University in 1974 and her doctorate in educational leadership at Ball State University last year.
Her base salary at Manchester will be $77,500, and she will assume her duties July 1.
Kim Thurston has been acting superintendent of Manchester Schools since Curry's resignation, under whom he was assistant superintendent. Thurston will resume his position in July.
