Credit: Tom Sofield/LevittownNow.com
Based on Thursday evening’s Pennsbury School Board meeting, it seems that Superintendent Dr. William Gretzula will not be returning next school year.
The superintendent ended contract negotiations this week after he learned of a final proposal and its terms, newly appointed School Board President T.R. Kannan told the public, adding that “it’s not him, it’s us.”
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Board member Josh Waldorf rebuffed the comment and said Gretzula seemed favorable to the deal with two changes.
When questioned by board member John Palmer, Waldorf said he spoke to Gretzula about the terms of the final proposal that was going to be offered. Shortly after, Gretzula’s attorney, according to board member accounts, informed the school board that he wished to end negotiations.
“I am sorry to see this come to this. I don’t think we continued our negotiations in good faith,” board member Gary Sanderson said, adding it was a “sad day for us and the community.”
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School Board Vice President Christian Schwartz said Gretzula clearly does not wish to be a part of the district if he keeps indicating negotiations are over.
“We need to get a superintendent here,” Schwartz said, noting that will help attract candidates to fill the vacant business manager job.
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Waldorf said several members of the school board have been “looking for any excuse” to get rid of Gretzula.
Board member Deb Wachspress questioned Schwartz on why he said Gretzula was doing a good job in a review a year ago but has recently pulled support for Gretzula.
Gretzula, who by many accounts by staff and parents is well-respected in the district, announced in September that he would not seek a new contract and move on once his current deal expires on June 30, 2019. The announcement followed a dramatic comment session by board members that revealed deep divisions among the elected body. Gretzula later agreed to negotiate with the school board again after a public outcry in support of the superintendent.
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During the meeting, there were some comments from board members that Kannan is not supporting Gretzula to gain the board presidency. He denied the claim.
Gretzula was hired by the school board in May 2016 and began his job in July of that year. His contract was for three years and he was paid a starting salary of $171,500.
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The school district plans to use the Bucks County Intermediate Unit to find their next superintendent.
