JEFFERSON TWP — South Butler Intermediate Elementary School may no longer have its own full-time principal come next week.

A few community members expressed their concerns about staffing at the school board’s meeting Wednesday night.

“The intermediate school already has a part-time librarian, a part-time registered nurse and a part-time guidance counselor. Why should these students also have a part-time principal?” said Dawn Mock of Penn Township.

Richard Cavett last month was promoted from principal to assistant superintendent, creating a vacancy at the intermediate elementary building. David Keibler, South Butler Primary principal, would likely oversee both the primary and intermediate elementary buildings once a part-time assistant principal is hired.

“I do not feel like making a cut in a leadership position, such as principal, is a responsible decision,” Mock continued. “If the principal leaves, we should replace the position of the principal, not rely on one individual to have to manage two buildings of almost 1,000 students, especially at times of standardized testing, curriculum changes and important needs for our students.”

David Zupsic, superintendent, insisted the consideration was not based on finances but creating more consistency and continuity between buildings.

“In our short-term future, this is the best way we can do that,” Zupsic said.

However, the staffing changes would save the district $25,000 to $30,000, he said.

Some school board members also took issue with the potential principal changes.

“I’m not sure it’s the best thing for our district,” said Debra Miller, board vice president.

Board member Richard Roberts agreed.

There are about 950 students between the two schools, which has kindergarten through third grade at the primary and fourth and fifth grades at the intermediate elementary.

“These kids need a full-time role model there,” said Rachael Horstman of Penn Township.

The board will vote on the personnel change at its regular meeting on Nov. 11.