READING — More than 100 school district residents repeatedly asked the Reading Board of Education to explain Wednesday why Superintendent Sherry Parr is not being rehired.

        But they left without answers.

        “We support Mrs. Parr. We want answers. All we have is speculation,” said Reading parent Pam Mages. “We want to know why. We don't want you to hide behind legal rhetoric.”

        Four weeks ago, the board voted 3-2 not to offer Mrs. Parr another contract when her present one expires July 31. Since then, board members have remained silent on the advice of their attorney.

        Board President Tom Bemmes told the crowd that unless Mrs. Parr signed a release saying she wouldn't sue the board or district, the board would not discuss its reasons for not renewing her contract. He cited two letters from Mrs. Parr's attorney raising questions about wrongful termination and discrimination he said could lead to litigation.

        But no legal action has been initiated, Mrs. Parr said.

        “I've not been given reasons why it's not being renewed,” Mrs. Parr said during a 75-minute discussion. “I've never been given job targets. I've never been given suggestions for improvement like we give (every) other administrator. I can't give you any reasons because none have been given to me.”

        Mrs. Parr has been superintendent since January 2000. . Mrs. Parr was hired as Central Elementary School's principal in 1992.

        Since her appointment as superintendent, the district has moved forward and the staff has been united, said Micki Imbronyev, a Reading teacher and parent.

        “She has given us direction,” Ms. Imbronyev said. “She is an educator whose primary interest is the welfare of the children of Reading.”

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