MEADOW HEIGHTS NAMES LEADER

PATTON -- Cheri Fuemmeler says she has her work cut out for her. She is the new school superintendent at Meadow Heights.

Fuemmeler, who has been serving the past six weeks as interim superintendent, was selected Tuesday at a closed meeting of the Meadow Heights Board of Education.

The school district has been in turmoil for years, culminating in July when Tom Waller resigned as superintendent after questions were raised about inflated enrollment figures being sent to the state.

An investigation showed that fictitious names were added to the school's roster in 1990-91 and 1991-92.

"I hope to bring a more positive element to the district," Fuemmeler said. "Over the last five to six weeks I've had a lot of support from teachers and parents who have encouraged me and helped out in all areas."

She said she wants to build on that positive feeling and improve community relationships.

Roy Allen, president of the board, said Fuemmeler was chosen from three finalists.

"We felt that she has been in there six weeks doing a very acceptable job handling the situation," Allen said. "She was the best choice, and I feel she will be a very good choice."

Fuemmeler accepted a one-year contract.

"We plan to review the progress and everything in December or January," Allen said, "with the possibility of a one-year contract."

During a closed meeting Monday, the board voted to fire Kay Waller, who is the former superintendent's wife. She worked as his secretary. She left Tuesday.

"The board felt that in the situation it was best to release her from her duties," Allen said.

When the problems surfaced in July, the board said Kay Waller could continue working at the school as long as she was supervised by Fuemmeler or Valerie Mayfield, a school secretary.

The board paid Mayfield to come to work during the summer vacation and to help supervise Kay Waller. Mayfield normally works only during the school year.

But Allen said the board decided the arrangement wasn't working.

"It was very unhandy and not conducive to keeping the school moving in a smooth manner," he said.