SAD 29 seeks principal to complete team

HOULTON – SAD 29 is nearing completion of its administrative team, with the district advertising for a new assistant principal at Houlton High School.

“We put it in the paper and are seeking actively candidates at this time,” Superintendent Steve Fitzpatrick said on Thursday

The vacancy occurred just last week when Assistant Principal Jerry Kiesman was named principal of the Southside School, also in Houlton.

The latest job opening comes on the heels of the district ending its extended search to replace Superintendent Susan Johnson and Houlton High Principal Michael Chadwick. Johnson resigned in March. Chadwick resigned this past December.

Fitzpatrick, the new superintendent, was hired in July and started his job on Monday. Fitzpatrick’s arrival also triggered musical chairs because he had been principal at Hodgdon High School.

Meanwhile, Marty Bouchard came on board in July as Houlton High principal. He too had been at Hodgdon High School, serving as the athletic director and assistant principal.

The superintendent said Thursday that no one has been chosen to fill in for Kiesman as Houlton assistant principal.

“Right now, Mr. Bouchard is doing it all, with some help from our office and others,” Fitzpatrick said Thursday. “We’re all trying to help as much as possible.” The superintendent said that the school board hopes to hire Kiesman’s successor as soon as possible.

“We will close the position as soon as a suitable candidate is found,” Fitzpatrick said. “We would definitely like to have someone in place by the time harvest break is here.”