Carlock and Towanda elementary schools currently each have a part-time principal. (Photo courtesy Facebook/Carlock Elementary PTC)

By Adam Studzinski

NORMAL – Unit 5 has decided to make a change in its principal positions at Carlock and Towanda elementary schools.

Rather than have a part-time principal in each building, which is the current practice, the district will instead have one full-time principal splitting time between the two schools beginning next school year.

"We have to find all ways possible to reduce our costs," said Superintendent Mark Daniel. "We do know it has happened in the past, yes, they did these about nine years ago. Would I rather have principal there, or even if it's a part-time principal there? Absolutely."

Daniel said between $70,000 $80,000 can be saved by making a move to a single, full time principal.

"We are going to work with the teachers and the new principal that is placed in that position and work out ways to handle scenarios, such as, how do you handle student discipline," He said.

Daniel hoped to begin interviewing for the new position by March 1 and make a recommendation to the school board by March 11. Decisions on how the principal will split time between the two schools will not be made until after someone has been hired.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].