Hubbard BOE nears decision on new chief

Staff report

HUBBARD

The Hubbard Board of Education is coming close to making a decision on a replacement for schools Superintendent Richard Buchenic.

Buchenic, who has been superintendent in the district since 2004, is retiring effective July 31.

The board conducted interviews for the top eight candidates Tuesday and Wednesday in executive, or closed, sessions.

The panel chose the eight semifinalists from 14 applicants, said board President Don Newell. He would not reveal who the board is interviewing.

He said the board likely will choose the final three candidates by today, and should choose the new superintendent Friday or Monday.

The new schools chief will make about the same as Buchenic — $85,000 a year, Newell said Tuesday.

Buchenic donated his salary, except for $1, back to the district last year.

“We’re pretty grateful,” Newell said.