June 20th, 2019 by WCBC Radio

The Allegany County Board of Education- by a 3-0-2 vote last week- approved the separation agreement between the board and outgoing superintendent David Cox. This week the board (members Bohn, Frank and Fraley- with Farrell and Foote recusing themselves) signed off on the deal. The only thing remaining for the agreement to be made official is Dr Cox’ signature. Board attorney’s tell WCBC News that there are no hurdles or last minute stumbling blocks, it is simply a matter of crossing the t’s and dotting the I’s- and  Cox is expected to sign the agreement any day now paving the way for an interim to be appointed. The board is advertising on a regional basis and will consider in-house candidates as well. With Cox expected to be leaving sometime in July to begin the  process of filling his new role in Sullivan County Tennessee- the interim process is on a fast track with letters of interest and resumes expected in the next few weeks- and interviews scheduled to take place prior to the July 4^th holiday. 

Obvious in-house candidates include: Dr Kim Kalbaugh, Chief Academic Officer; and Jeff Blank, Chief Administrative Officer.  Other names making the rounds include former Superintendent William AuMiller; former Fort Hill Principal and Energy Coordinator Steve Lewis; and former longtime board administrator Jim Smith.  Although Cox’ planned departure has been known to the public since early May- the elected board has taken a vow of silence approach to the subject- not yet having issued any official public statements on Cox or his decision to leave. Board vice president Dr David Bohn said once an interim is appointed and Cox’ separation is official- the board will have a response…