McCall begins work as RSU 39 assistant superintendent in July
CARIBOU, Maine — Jane McCall has spent 16 years serving Hilltop Elementary School and will soon be influencing far more students as she begins work as assistant superintendent and curriculum director for RSU 39.
Announced during a May 18, 2016 school board meeting, the decision to hire McCall as assistant superintendent was met with applause from all in attendance, with Superintendent Tim Doak adding that the Hilltop principal gave an “excellent interview” for the position.
With over two decades of experience, McCall is no stranger to the education field. She began teaching in Fort Fairfield, where she worked for seven years, and eventually took a job as assistant principal at Hilltop for one year, and then as principal for 15 years.
Once Assistant Superintendent Lois Brewer announced her retirement in early spring, McCall contemplated applying.
“In the time between Mrs. Brewer’s announcement and now, I did some soul searching and decided that it would be a good professional move to make at this time in my life. Part of what was so enticing to me is that I graduated from CHS, and then had the opportunity to teach in Fort Fairfield, where I lived for about 24 years. So when I learned of the connection that RSU 39 will have with MSAD 20, it really added extra incentive. Both school systems have been absolutely phenomenal to work for; I believe they have some of the best staff, not only in Aroostook, but in the state of Maine.”
RSU 39’s connection with MSAD 20 will involve McCall working as a curriculum director for both districts. However, she will not be serving Fort Fairfield in the assistant superintendent capacity.
McCall’s job will begin on July 1st. The school board and superintendent have agreed to let Brewer stay for the month so both can work collaboratively and ease the transition.
“The only thing that’s tugging at my heart is knowing that I won’t work with the children directly on a regular basis,” McCall said, “but I think I’ll be able to be in buildings often and visit students in a different capacity.”
The new position will require McCall to focus on the curriculum provided to students in both districts and to look for professional development opportunities. Assistant superintendent duties will come into play when Superintendent Doak is not available or if he is visiting another district and there is urgent need for his presence.
“Mr. Doak and I will be in constant communication, especially if there is a situation while he is away,” added McCall.
The school board is now looking to hire one principal to manage both Teague Park and Hilltop schools. McCall says this decision is to “help us begin the transition as we look forward to being in a new preK-8 building.”
Overall, McCall was glad to hear that Superintendent Doak thought she gave an excellent interview.
“I would like to believe that what he and the other interview committee members heard was my passion for both districts and pride for the work we’ve accomplished under Mrs. Brewer’s leadership. We make decisions based on what’s best for our students and also support our staff during that process.”
Additionally, McCall emphasized the opportunities available in Aroostook County, and believes many local schools do an excellent job of preparing young minds for the future.
“Schools in Aroostook County provide a quality education that prepares us for college or the work world,” said McCall. “When making choices for post-secondary plans, our University of Maine System has many programs to support our professional dreams or desires. A person can live in and stay in Aroostook County and obtain a quality education that allows them to both advance and grow professionally.”
