Shipman contract approved

By Michael Butler

Soon to be superintendent, Wade Shipman, was grateful for his welcome basket.  Marilyn Speake presented Shipman with goodies and gift certificates from businesses, citizens and school personnel on Thursday night in the Tallassee High School Media Center.

The Board of Education made the hire official with a unanimous vote to approve Shipman’s contract.  The four-year deal will pay him $118,000 annually.

Family members were present with the former Fayette County superintendent at the special called meeting.

“We want to move forward together.  I think we can do that,” Shipman stated.  “I want to thank the board for giving me this opportunity.”

Shipman shakes on it with school board president Steve Burak

The board met two days earlier and bid goodbye to Dr. Kenneth Varner, who will take over as superintendent with Brewton City Schools.

“I just want to thank Dr. Varner,” school board member Danny Ingram said. “He’s moved the system forward and made some quality hires, especially technology wise.”

Shipman will begin work in Tallassee on July 1.

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