A special meeting results in the hiring of a new Sweetwater County Child Developmental Center executive director.
According to a press release from the SCCDC Board, Cristy Pelham has been chosen as the CDC's new executive director. The decision was made after the board learned its current director Lu Kasper was resigning to accept a Kindergarten through eighth grade principal's position in Lusk. The CDC serves children from birth to five years old.
"Our board learned Mrs. Kasper was leaving to pursue another opportunity," Pelham said in an interview. "Given the dearth of candidates this time of year, the board sought out a solution."
Prior to this decision, Pelham resigned as the CDC's board chair. The board was then reorganized with Max Mickelson becoming the new board chair. The board then went into executive session to discuss its options for the director's position. After executive session, the board reconviened and approved a one-year contract with Pelham, Mickelson said.
In a letter from the board to students, parents and staff, the board explains how the board came to this decision.
"While we did not anticipate needing to find a new director during a time of fiscal challenge and late in the year as those positions are concerned, we found a solution that will serve our organization well and, most importantly, ensure our students receive the high quality of care to which they are accustomed," the letter to students, parents and staff states.
Pelham said she is on a one-year contract, while the board conducts a full search.
"We strongly support Dr. Pelham for this position given her education, experience, and familiarity with our CDC. We ask you join us in welcoming her as our new director, beginning June 1, and give her your support as well," the letter to students, parents and staff states.
Mickelson said because of the time of the year almost all of those with the qualifications needed for the position already had renewal contracts approved and they didn't feel comfortable asking someone to break a contract.
While Pelham fills the position for one year, the board will search for qualified applicants, conduct interviews and hire a director.
Ready for the change
"I am familiar with the SCCDC and the current Executive Director, Lu Kasper, has left the organization in a great place," Pelham said. "I will strive to continue the work she has laid out and ensure that we continue to serve the children ages birth to five in the best way possible. I will work alongside the great staff we have in both the Green River and the Rock Springs buildings to accomplish this."
One challenge Pelham sees already is the lack of funding.
The SCCDC like other programs, has had budget shortfalls. Pelham said she wants to apply for the permanent executive director position when the job is opened up, but for now she'll gain experience in her one-year roll.
Pelham is nationally certified in early education, and have spent many years teachers young students in a variety of capacities including in classroom, weekend workshops, swim lessons and coaching sports.
"I have been teaching for the past 18 years and wanted to take the next step into leadership," Pelham said. "I wanted to become an administrator, but still remain in education, and this opportunity came up."
Pelham has taught kindergarten in both Sweetwater County School District No. 2 and District No. 1. She said she knows the challenges these students face.
Pelham already has to goals in mind -- spend time listening to staff, parents and students and review all the aspects of the organization.
"Once those two goals have been completed, I can roll up my sleeves and hit the ground running," she said. "I want to strengthen the budget, ensure we provide the best services for our children and families, and support the staff in their professional growth."
"Until we have found every child, screened them, and provided them with resources we have not accomplished our No. 1 goal," she said.
Those with questions or concerns, can contact Mickelson, at mickelsonm@sw1.k12.wy.us.
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