New school chief ready for challenge

In her new job as superintendent of USD 234, Diane Gross wants to build on what's already in place.

"I hear there are some great things going on in the district and I want to find ways to sustain those programs and establish processes to build on those," Gross said in a phone interview. "My goal is to make all programs No. 1."

"It certainly has been pointed out to me that the fine arts and athletics programs are important and I want to be able to offer those kinds of activities and programs for kids. A well-rounded education is very important to me and those are the things that keep kids engaged in academics...," she added.

Gross was chosen after the school board considered candidates within the district and surrounding area. Officials announced the new superintendent and accepted a two-year contract on April 19 for Gross, who had been Liberal deputy superintendent. She replaces Rick Werling who announced his early retirement at the Feb. 13 school board meeting.

In February, Werling said he had his health and is at retirement age making it "time to go." His contract ends June 30.

Gross attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla., in 1983 for her bachelor of science degree in mathematics education before receiving her master's degree in education administration and supervision from Wichita State University in 1993, according to a biography submitted to the school board.

Working as an educator for almost 30 years, Gross has held positions as a teacher, coach, principal, curriculum director and served as an assistant superintendent for nine years. She's held her most recent post, deputy superintendent for USD 480, for a little more than a year.

Her first year in Fort Scott will consist of "a lot of learning and listening," Gross said.

On April 19, school board members unanimously approved Gross's contract which pays her $118,500 for the first year -- $17,141 more than Werling received. Gross's base salary is $109, 610 with the remainder going to in-district travel, cell phone allowance, insurance and $2,800 for her doctorate. The district is also including a one-time moving allowance of $3,500.

School Board President Janet Braun said when determining the details of the contract, board members considered "various things," including a basic assessment of what the district could afford.

Of the final product, Braun said, "we felt like it was reasonable."

The Kansas Association of School Boards, which assisted in the superintendent search, also helped draft the contract.

Donna Whiteman, attorney and assistant executive director of legal services at KASB, said the agreement is very similar to a teacher's contract.

Whiteman added it usually includes information about salary, benefits, vacation, sick leave and sometimes a job description and responsibilities. She said there might also be information about contract renewal or severance.

Gross said she is still looking for homes in the area, but has been actively involved in the search to replace three other administrators retiring at the conclusion of the school year.

One of the things she said she wants people to know about her is that she is "very committed" to what she does as a profession and is always willing to listen.

"But at the same time, I like to be the normal person you see in the community," Gross said. "I enjoy life and I like to laugh. Humor is important for me. You have to find ways to enjoy life and your passions."