The Pullman School Board discussed the appointment of an assistant superintendent during their meeting on Wednesday night. West Valley High School Principal Ryan Mulvey was nominated for the position by Pullman Schools administrators last week, pending the board’s approval. Some community members expressed concerns about the hire, particularly in light of the board’s decision to eliminate the full-time athletics and activities director position at the high school. They presented data indicating that several peer school districts in Washington do not employ an assistant superintendent. However, district administrators countered with information showing that many comparable districts do have an assistant superintendent or other administrative roles that fulfill similar responsibilities.

Trustee Craig Nelson removed the recommendation for Mulvey’s hire from the routine consent agenda, stating that the position had not been openly discussed by the board. Board Chair Nathan Roberts noted that there seems to be confusion regarding the role of assistant superintendents.

Ultimately, the board approved Mulvey’s hiring with a vote of 3 to 1, with Nelson opposing the decision. Trustee Lisa Jones was absent from the meeting.

Additionally, the board approved a voluntary salary reduction for Superintendent Dr. Bob Maxwell. His salary of nearly $220,000 for the upcoming fiscal year will be reduced by 2.5%, amounting to just over $5,400. In February, the school board extended Maxwell’s contract through 2028.