Swisher stays in Sisters!

Steve Swisher has asked to be removed from consideration for the job of Superintendent of Bend Schools. Swisher will remain Sisters Schools Superintendent for the immediate future.

"I am no longer a candidate for the position," Swisher told The Nugget on Thursday, March 16. The Bend board was to decide on Friday between three candidates.

Swisher said that "lots of hot tub time" went into the decision by Swisher and his wife, Novella to remain in Sisters. Considerations included quality of life issues, and "where we want to make a difference," Swisher said.

"We are delighted beyond belief," said School Board Chariman Bill Reed, caught for comment as he was heading down to School Board offices to thank Swisher for his decision.

Sisters schools face a number of challenges, including development of a master facilities plan, curriculum issues, staff development and, perhaps most worrisome, increasing costs in the face of flat or declining revenues.