Palmer's Hiring by Weston Public Schools is Official

It's official. The Weston Board of Education named Monroe Supt. of Schools Dr. Colleen Palmer as its new schools chief.

On Monday evening at the , the Board of Education unanimously appointed Palmer as the new superintendent of Weston Public Schools, effective July 25.

Palmer was awarded a three-year contract expiring on June 20, 2014. Her first year salary, pro-rated to reflect a mid-year start, will be $232,000.

Word of Dr. Palmer's impending appointment , prior to the completion of her background check and site visit. Both were completed satisfactorily.

"I think we are unanimous and very pleased," said Ellen Uzenoff, board vice chairman. "It was a long and thorough process, but an enjoyable one," she added, smiling.

Referring back to to determine the qualities that the Weston community preferred to see in the new superintendent, Chairman Phil Schaefer read a long list of professional accomplishments that Palmer achieved over the course of her career.  

During the search, the board was unanimous in their desire not just to maintain the status quo, but to use the opportunity to hire a candidate who would be able to improve the schools' already excellent reputation.

Board member Les Wolf commented that the board was ready to have Palmer "take it to the next level — we know you can do that," he said. "You will demonstrate it with your leadership."

Palmer, present at the meeting, used the opportunity thank the board for the opportunity to work in a "cutting edge" district.

"It's an exceptional professional opportunity," she said, adding that she was working to immerse herself in the Weston community.

"I'm so impressed with the level of professionalism of the teachers and staff that I've met," Palmer said. "It's an exciting time.

"I am eager to serve the students and the community to the very best of my ability," she added.

Dr. John Reed will remain , a position he's held since Feb. 4. Reed took the job when former superintendent Jerome Belair announced his retirement in November 2010.

Palmer was hired as Monroe's superintendent when Alan Beitman left to accept the job at another district in 2008. The school district will also have to replace longtime assistant superintendent, Charles "Richard" Canfield, who accepted the superintendent of schools job in Sandwich, Mass.