Schools Superintendent to Answer Critics

Back on the job just a few days, Schools Superintendent Dr. Paul Dulac says he'll go public within the next two weeks, answering critics and addressing controversies swirling around the school department.

"I want to get over the hump of negativity involving recent events," Dulac said.

One issue he wants to address: this week's hiring of business manager Brian Salzer. Dulac signed a contract with Salzer this spring, with a salary of $125,000, which was $22,000 above budget. The School Committee threw out the deal, saying Dulac should've received the committee's approval first. Salzer was hired this week at a salary of $111,000.

"The business manager situation, contractual issues. I want to respond to each of these things," Dulac said. He declined to go into further detail.

The business manager controversy erupted while Dulac was out on medical leave for a quadruple bypass. He suffered chest pains on May 20 while cutting wood and hauling brush. He underwent surgery on June 1 and returned to his office Tuesday. On doctors' orders, he is working half days through July.

"I feel good physically, better than I have in a long time," he said. "I have a healthy heart and now I have 50% more blood flowing through it."

Dulac is on a strict training program, with physical therapy and frequent stress tests.

He has big plans for the upcoming school year, his last as superintendent here.

"My goal is to carry out and institutionalize all our efforts on our instructional focus," he said, referring to his five-year plan to boost students' academic performance by, among other things, improving communication between teachers and schools.

"It's a creative endeavour," he said. "It's really been great."

Dulac said one challenge this year will be helping the School Committee find his replacement.

"That transition can be tough," he added.