The Wayland Board of Education held an informal evaluation Monday night of Supt. Tim Reeves’ first year on the job and was told it may not be easy to replace outgoing assistant Supt. Patricia Velie.

Reeves, who came on board last June, was evaluated in areas such as government and board relations, community relations, staff relations, instructional leadership and business and finance.

The superintendent generally had favorable reviews, but no action was taken on his compensation or contract. He was hired just about a year ago at a salary of $151,000 per year.

“I think you’ve done a good job,” Theresa Dobry told Reeves. “And it’s been a tough year.”

“You’ve done a good job representing this district,” added Becky Hohnke.

Board President Dan Cassini said, “I like the feedback I’ve been getting from teachers.”

Reeves said he and Velie have been making the rounds to every school in the district to promote the upcoming bond proposal and to get to know better the people working in the trenches.

Reeves also told board members  that five candidates already have applied for the position of assistant superintendent of finances and operations, but the search may be a daunting task. He hinted that interviews could begin as early as next week.

Velie originally was scheduled to retire at the end of June 2022, but she agreed to stay on for another year to shepherd the $49.7 million bond proposal that includes a new pool and renovations and repairs for every school building in the district.

In other business at the work session Monday, the board:

• Heard a glowing report of the progress of the “Capturing Kids’ Hearts” training and professional program implemented a year ago. Plans call for it to have a second round of training next year.

Reeves explained, “We want to take the appropriate next step.”

Assistant Supt. for Instruction Theresa Fulk said, “We’re seeing a decrease in behavioral referrals.”

• Received Velie’s recommendation to buy a 2019 Chevy Equinox for the afety director, noting the current 2007 vehicle no longer has heat or defrost features. Cost is $22,610.
• Held a lengthy discussion about the difference in schools colors for apparel and school uniforms during athletic contests. The traditional forest green and white while some black and gray options was approved. However, Hohnke indicated her preference eventually to go back to just green and white.
• Was told by Velie that the school bond loan amount for this year will remain at just over $1.6 million.