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Missoula County Public Schools trustees were united in choosing their own leadership, but split on the necessity of bringing their new superintendent in ahead of his contract.

The trustees elected two-term incumbent Toni Rehbein as chairwoman at their Tuesday meeting. Past chairwoman Jenda Hemphill opted not to seek the post again after three years of leadership. However, she was unanimously elected vice chairwoman.

Four-term incumbent Jim Sadler was named vice chairman for high school matters. He is one of three high school district trustees who do not vote on elementary district issues. He represents the elementary school districts south of Missoula that send students to the city high schools.

A decision to pay next year's superintendent, Alex Apostle, for up to five days of work this school year drew debate, but ultimately passed. Retiring Superintendent Jim Clark recommended inviting Apostle to visit the district before his contract starts July 1 so he could see students and staff before the summer break.

The proposal drew criticism from some trustees and teachers union president Jack Sturgis, who argued it would be better to use the money to buy textbooks or other school supplies. The superintendent's daily pay rate is $510.

Trustees Scott Bixler, Joe Toth, Nancy Pickhardt, Debbie Dupree, Sadler and Rehbein voted to approve the pay offer. Trustees Rick Johns, Kelley Hirning, Drake Lemm and Adam Duerk opposed the plan. Trustee Jenda Hemphill was absent.

Apostle tentatively plans to be in the school district in the week before graduation June 7. He officially begins work July 1, while Clark intends to step down July 20. Clark has led the school district for six years.

Reporter Rob Chaney can be reached at 523-5382 or at rchaney@missoulian.com

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