Superintendent Seeks Protection

Wed., Jan. 15, 1997

From Staff And Wire Reports

The superintendent of the Ririe School District, L. Dean Birch, called for police protection at the school board meeting Monday night.

With a Bonneville County sheriff’s deputy on hand to watch a standing-room only crowd, nothing happened but the incident points up how heated feelings have become over suspended principal Nikki Miller.

A few teachers banged their heads against the wall out of frustration. Patrons said little except to grumble when the school board renewed Birch’s contract.

In November, Miller, principal at Ririe Elementary School, was placed on administrative leave on Birch’s recommendation. Board members allege she violated procedures for conducting the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills. Patrons and some teachers support Miller. Birch has been acting as principal in Miller’s absence.

Patrons are circulating recall petitions against school board members Clyde Cook, James Lovell and Blair Moncur, said Adelle Clawson, a former Ririe substitute teacher. They expect to have the necessary signatures this week. Two other school board members, Lynette Miller and George Newby, are up for re-election in May.

Seventh District Judge Ted Wood granted temporary restraining orders against the board last month preventing it from holding a dismissal hearing for Miller. A hearing on the legal battle is set for Feb. 5.

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Superintendent Seeks Protection

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

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