New USC High School principal Julie Stauber is excited to start work.

New United South Central High School principal Julie Stauber was formally introduced to the USC School Board by superintendent Keith Fleming at a special board meeting on Tuesday, July 28.

“I am excited to be here,” Stauber said. “I have been in education for 30 years. I have already met many wonderful people since I arrived here and I am looking forward to getting started on the job.”

The board then proceeded to approve Stauber’s contract with the district. Her salary is $83,417 (prorated as per $91,000 annual salary).

Other benefits include:

Health insurance.

Long term disability insurance paid by the district.

Life insurance of $50,000, premium paid by the district.

Prorated 403b matching contribution of up $3,209 per year.

Cell phone reimbursement of $50 per month.

The board then took up the topic of the 2020 school reopening options.

“I have received some information there is a possibility each district might get the option of deciding how they would open this fall,” Fleming explained. “I would like to get the board’s thoughts on reopening and how to proceed in case we do get the option to decide.”

Board member Diana Brooks was the first to speak.

“I would be in favor of a full reopening if we are able to follow the guidelines, the staff is comfortable and if it can be done safely,” Brooks offered.

Vice chair Jon Feist also chimed in.

“It is hard to really say without seeing just how strict the guidelines will be for a full reopening,” Feist stated.

The point was also made even a full reopening will have an element of hybrid learning because some families will choose to keep their children home to educate them.

Concerns were also raised about kindergarten students who have never had face-to-face time with their teacher.

The board asked their new high school principal for her thoughts.

“The social, emotional aspect of this is so important and needs to be considered,” Stauber replied.

Finally, concern was also raised about teachers who, for various reasons, may be more vulnerable to COVID-19.

As one board member said at the end of the discussion, “It is a very complicated issue.”