Board remains one short

never voted to accept the resignation.

Reached after the meeting Tuesday, Ms. Stepnick said she could not comment because she was at a work dinner.

Board member Steve Schlauch, who voted in favor of Mr. Coulson’s appointment, said Ms. Stepnick was among three finalists the board called for a second round of interviews Monday night, but she didn’t show up.

All eight board members at that point were in agreement that Mr. Coulson was the best choice to fill the position, Mr. Schlauch said. “I don’t know what happened,” he said of the 4-4 vote.

Board members Sal Colella, Kevin Dowdell, Jim Rogers and Rich Zucco voted against the appointment. Ms. Caldwell, Mr. Schlauch and board members Michele Gallagher and Vicky Roessler voted in favor. No other nominations were made, and those who voted against did not explain their decision.

District solicitor Lee Price said the board had to appoint a replacement within 30 days of Ms. Stepnick’s resignation, leaving members with a deadline of Thursday. After the 30 days, a group of 10 or more Plum residents can petition a judge to name a replacement. Otherwise, the seat could remain vacant until it comes up for election next year.

Ms. Stepnick could also take her case to court and ask a judge to weigh in on whether her seat is truly vacant per the school code, Mr. Price said.

The board did not discuss whether it will reinstate high school principal Ryan Kociela, who was placed on paid administrative leave with Mr. Glasspool in May.