Costly 'coach' raises concerns

A proposal to spend $245,000 over two years to hire a writing and reading coach proved to be a sticking point in the South Milwaukee School Board's May 6 discussion about how the district will spend federal stimulus money.

The South Milwaukee School District will receive $1.1 million in federal stimulus funds over two years, an increase of $61,189 over earlier estimates.

In April, Jennifer Sielaff, director of personnel, administrative and legal services, presented a proposal for using the money. The largest allocation would be for the coach, who would help teachers improve by modeling teaching strategies in the classroom.

"That's the only problem I have with this whole thing, and it's not so much the concept as the dollar amount," board member Patricia Bordak said.

Sielaff said the amount is based on several factors, including that the position would be a year-round one and the coach would be required to have a master's degree and experience.

The cost for one year is about $20,000 more than the top of the teacher salary schedule.

Hiring a less-experienced person might cost less, but it could create trust issues for the teachers working with the coach, Sielaff said.

Board member David Maass supported the district's recommendation, emphasizing that research shows that better teachers increase student achievement.

Some board members, however, felt a coach was not the best use of funds, given the cutting of teachers in recent years.

"I'd rather put the person in the classroom," board member Terri Travia said. "Hire a bunch of teachers and stick them in the elementary schools wherever we have the problems and work with the kids."

Superintendent David Ewald indicated he and Sielaff would re-examine the proposal and consult with the administrative council about the board's concerns.

A date to discuss the matter further has not been set.

Julie Ann Marra can be reached at (262) 446-6634.