Mike Hammer
STACYVILLE — The RSU 50 district must once again begin the process of finding a superintendent following Monday’s announcement that Interim-Superintendent Mike Hammer is leaving the district.
Hammer announced his decision to resign during Monday night’s monthly board meeting. Hammer had previously stated he was interested in becoming the district’s full-time superintendent.
During the meeting, Hammer stated he was leaving to take the superintendent’s job in RSU 19 (Newport).
“It was a very difficult decision for me, and if anyone knows me, my intent has always been to get closer to home,” he said. “I really appreciated what you have offered me here. I think it has worked out great for both of us. You presented some very interesting challenges, but you as a board have come together.”
Hammer stated his decision to take the position in Newport was more about geography than anything else, as it would put him closer to his family in Ellsworth. The Newport area is about 45 minutes from his home in Ellsworth as opposed to the two-plus hour drive Hammer has been making.
Hammer came to RSU 50 in July, 2015 after serving as the superintendent in neighboring RSU 29 (Houlton) for four years. He took over for Larry Malone, who was the RSU 50 superintendent for three years.
The district has been seeking a full-time superintendent for the past year. Hammer’s last day with the district will be June 30. A search committee for RSU 50 will meet Wednesday, April 20, to discuss the next steps.
RSU 50 will have to find another interim superintendent if a suitable candidate is not found between now and July 1.
