TOPSHAM
Maine School Administrative District 75 has its new leader — at least on an interim basis.
The school board appointed Dan Chuhta, who has served as assistant superintendent for six years, on Thursday.
On a night when tribute was paid to outgoing Superintendent Brad Smith, the board chose Chuhta to help the district move forward as it undertakes a search for a permanent replacement.
“Considering the tight timeline of our hiring process, the board has decided to appoint an interim superintendent,” said board Chairwoman Holly J.P. Kopp. “Not only is Mr. Chuhta familiar with and extremely invested in our district, he will provide great stability and leadership.”
He was hired for the assistant superintendent role in 2012; prior to that, he worked as curriculum coordinator for science, technology, engineering and mathematics for Portland Public Schools. Chuhta also has experience as a data and assessment coordinator and science teacher with School Administrative District 57 in Waterboro, and worked closely with MSAD 75’s pre- K task force in the past year.
He remarked how he’d been hired by the district at a similar board meeting that included honoring retiring staff.
“I was recalling actually that I was appointed assistant superintendent on an evening just like this,” said Chuhta. “I was remarking that it was my introduction to the district, about what a district was. Little did I know, six years later, how much more I would respect and feel committed to this district.”
Smith announced his retirement in late March and it will take effect July 1. At that time, Kopp said the board would not be rushed in making a decision on a replacement and would wait for the right candidate to emerge.
Chuhta is grateful for the chance to fill the role.
“I appreciate this opportunity,” said Chuhta. “It’s humbling and an honor for me to be in the position of superintendent.”
Among those honored for their service to the district Thursday night was Smith, who is retiring after 44 years in education. He has been superintendent in the district since July 2011, one year after joining MSAD 75 as assistant superintendent.
“There are two components of Brad’s leadership that I think we can be proud of. The first is in safety and security in our district,” said Chuhta. “Brad’s leadership has taken our district to a place that’s different than it was a few years ago, necessary unfortunately, but leaves many of us reassured.
“Then, of course, the new high school,” he added. “The changes that will occur with the Mt. Ararat High School under Brad’s leadership has been remarkable. We’ll thank him for that for years to come I’m sure.”
chris@timesrecord.com
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