David Foley

SAXONBURG — David Foley, South Butler School District’s new superintendent, told residents and the school board Wednesday that he plans to bring stability to the position.

“I hope to be here for quite a while,” said David Foley, who was hired by the board last week.

Foley said he would be able to start his new job at the end of January.

Although under a 90-day release clause in his contract with the West Middlesex Area School District in Mercer County, where he has been superintendent for five years, Foley said there is a chance he could start sooner.

“I’m very excited to be here,” he said.

Foley said working for South Butler is a good opportunity to grow and lead.

Frank Prazenica, who didn’t attend the meeting, has been serving as acting superintendent since June when David Zupsic, former superintendent, resigned.

Prazenica led the search for the new superintendent. Twenty-two people applied for the job.

The board hired Foley to a five-year contract with a starting annual salary of $150,000. Solicitor Tom Breth said the contract does not include annual pay raises and the board must approve the superintendent’s salary each year.