Maya Kukes
CIVIC CENTER -- Deputy Supt. Greg Bowman was appointed interim school
superintendent in a unanimous vote of the Burbank Unified School Board at
Thursday night's board meeting.
"The board is very confident in Dr. Bowman's ability to lead the
district," board member Trish Burnett said.
Fellow board member Richard Raad cited Bowman's leadership abilities
and knowledge of the curriculum and district as reasons for choosing him.
"We felt he was the best-qualified person in this district," Raad said.
Bowman became deputy superintendent in July 2000, and has been with
the district since 1994. Before coming to Burbank, he worked for Glendale
Unified School District for 22 years and also worked in La Canada
Flintridge and Pasadena. He has served as a teacher and principal, and
has held several administrative positions.
No interim deputy superintendent will be named, as Bowman will fill
both roles.
"I'm happy to be able to serve the district and the community, but
this should not be construed as a promotion or time to celebrate," Bowman
said. "It's time to get on with the work of the district."
Bowman takes the helm as the district faces a $3-million budget
deficit for the coming school year. The district is still trying to
correct mistakes made by the previous fiscal management team and is
dealing with the rising costs of workmen's compensation, insurance
premiums and special education costs.
The rise from the previous $2-million shortfall figure is attributed
to fewer students for the next year than previously anticipated, as well
as the district's need to keep at least 3% of the school's budget in a
contingency fund.
Former Supt. David Aponik took a leave of absence last month. The
board terminated his contract on March 21 and reassigned him as a school
psychologist. He has not returned to work.
Aponik's attorney, Eric Bathen, maintains the board's appointment of
an interim superintendent violates Aponik's contract.
Burnett said appointing a replacement for Aponik is withing the
board's rights. The board has not discussed the search for a permanent
superintendent.
