Board non-renews teacher contract

SWAN VALLEY- In a special meeting May 26, the Swan Valley School Board voted to non-renew its contract with non-certified staff Christopher Mauldin. Mauldin was hired under a provisional license three years ago.

Under state statute the District cannot continue Mauldin’s contract without an extension to the current provisional license, said James Boyd, Board Chair.

In 2021, the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) granted fourth year extensions to instructors working toward certification due to COVID issues. To date OPI has not granted an extension.

“[This motion] has nothing to do with the quality of teacher, it has nothing to do with intentions,” Boyd said. “It has nothing to do with anything. It’s following the law.”

Mauldin has the option to continue working his master’s program and apply for the position, Boyd said. Mauldin stated at the meeting he planned to finish his program in August and then complete 12-weeks of demonstration teaching.

The next school board meeting is scheduled for June 21 at 7 p.m.