CDC hires director from Green River

The Sweetwater County Child Developmental Center hired a Green River educator to take the helm of the organization.

Last week, the CDC announced the center’s board offered the position to Lu Kasper, who currently works as the principal at Harrison Elementary School. A starting date has yet to be determined, but her employment will start after the current school year concludes.

Kasper was one of 21 candidates applying for the position and one of three finalists contacted for interviews. Her job offer came after an executive session hosted during the CDC board meeting last Tuesday evening.

“I am very excited about joining the CDC and I look forward to meeting the students, staff, and parents,” Kasper said in a press release. “I have always had a passion for early childhood education. Teaching kindergarten, first grade, along with my years teaching students with special needs have been among my favorites in my 32 years as an educator.”

Kasper has a master’s degree in education administration from the University of Wyoming, where she also earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

“Lu’s background, skills, and overall personality will complement the SCCDC very well,” CDC Board President, Cristy Magagna-Pelham said. “She is dynamic, articulate, professional, and cares deeply for children. This, combined with her expertise and extensive educational experience, will be a great asset our organization.”

Kasper’s appointment to head the CDC comes after the previous director’s contract was terminated by the board Dec. 9, 2014.

Shelly Wall, the previous director, was placed on paid administrative leave in October.

Details regarding Wall’s dismissal from her position were never released to the public, but didn’t stem from anything relating to property or student safety.

“Children have been and will always be our number one priority here at the CDC. The pending review has nothing to do with the mismanagement of funds or property, safety or health of our students. We have and will continue to deliver educational programs and services that are life changing for children in our community. As with all personnel matters, further information is confidential,” Magagna-Pelham said in a previous release.