The Peru Gazette

Rod Driscoll

By John T. Ryan

Peru Central’s school year began with an overall sense of optimism. The new Superintendent, Dr. Thomas Stapleford, addressed the teaching staff on Tuesday, September 6, 2011.  Peru students reported for class on Thursday, September 8^th. On September 9^th a school news release stated that Stapleford was on temporary leave for an indefinite period of time. No reason was given for the leave. On September 13^th the Board of Education named former Peru Central School Superintendent A. Paul Scott as Interim Superintendent.

Understandably many Peru residents have been asking why Stapleford is on leave.  The Peru Gazette asked School Board President Rod Driscoll why the board hasn’t released more information. Driscoll responded, “Any organization dealing with a personnel matter can’t release that information to the public. If we wanted to be reckless we could, but that could open our district up to liability. It’s a courtesy to the individual and a necessity for the district. When we can release more information we will. Our responsibility is to the district and the taxpayers and we take that seriously.”

Discoll went on to say the school board has always been good about releasing information. He cited this week’s news release informing the public that mold had been discovered in the Peru Intermediate School building. He is aware that many community residents want to know the exact nature of Stapleford’s departure.  At this point Peru residents have to rely on the good judgment of the Board of Education.