Consensus builder takes P'burg helm Chando to run district as acting superintendent. Monday, January 21, 2008 • By ANDREA EILENBERGER • The Express-Times PHILLIPSBURG | George Chando said taking the helm of the Phillipsburg School District comes down to commitment. The newly appointed acting superintendent's transition comes at a time filled with challenges, but he doesn't feel daunted. The school board named Chando, a 33-year district employee, to the post shortly after the former superintendent bid farewell and officials warned of a dire financial situation. "When you've seen everything we've accomplished, you really just have a desire to be able to see our district continue to move forward," Chando said. Chando, 54, grew up in Phillipsburg and graduated from the high school. He began his career in the district as a social studies teacher. Over the years, he has served as the athletic director, assistant principal and principal. In 2001, he became director of secondary education and later took responsibility for the elementary level. He's worked to coordinate curriculum through the grade levels and align curriculum in sending districts so students entering the high school have a similar knowledge base. Board President Paul Rummerfield described Chando as a consensus builder. "I think George has the ability to listen to all different sides of an argument and come to some type of consensus that is for the overall good for the organization," Rummerfield said. Aside from Chando's years of experience in nearly every aspect of the district, including budget and curriculum, he seems level-headed and calm under pressure, Rummerfield said. The board is seeking a full-time superintendent, and Chando said he's seriously considering throwing his hat in the ring. Chando is knowledgeable about the district's quest for a new high school the state previously promised but hasn't funded. "I certainly believe we will be able to work through anything and come out with something that's going to be best for every student," he said of Phillipsburg and the sending districts. Business Administrator Bill Poch projected that under Gov. Jon Corzine's new school funding formula the district is facing a more than $10 million shortfall for the 2008-09 budget. No matter what hurdle or transition the district faces, Chando said, the constant has to remain focusing on what is best for students, ensuring that programs are successfully delivered and academic goals are met. Former Superintendent Gordon Pethick agreed in December to an early separation deal with the board about six months before his contract was set to expire. The state approved the agreement Jan. 4. Another top administrator, Assistant Superintendent Jacqueline Attinello, is retiring in September. Rummerfield said no decisions have been surrounding the absence her departure will create. Chando's salary is $125,243, according to Poch. Rummerfield said they haven't discussed a raise. Reporter Andrea Eilenberger can be reached at 610-258-7171 or by e-mail at aeilenberger@express-times.com.