Campbell enjoys his time as WRV's interim superintendent

Steve Campbell didn't know how to take his wife's response when he asked if it was OK with her for him to return to White River Valley as interim superintendent for a couple of months.

"I really didn't have any doubts that I could do it, but I didn't know if my wife would let me do it or not. She really didn't care what I did, and I didn't know how to take that," Campbell joked on Thursday morning.

Campbell stepped up to the plate to help the White River Valley School Corporation in October when current superintendent Layton Wall went on medical leave. Campbell had 16 years of experience in the position with WRV, and when asked to fill in, he was more than happy to help.

He retired from WRV in 2004.

"I really didn't have any concerns. I've been in touch with Layton over the years here, and we've talked about different things," Campbell explained. "We've talked about some of the problems facing him, and I felt I could come in and still do the job.

"To be honest, everything was in pretty good shape so there wasn't a lot to do anyway."

Two projects Wall had going before his medical leave was getting a new teacher's contract and the remodeling of the junior/senior high building.

"We've got a few things accomplished that he had in the fire and needed to be taken care of," Campbell said. "But most of it was just maintain until he could return.

"He had begun the $2 million renovation project, and I spent a lot of time on the phone with individuals on selecting a provider for that project. If we don't sell those bonds today (Thursday) or tomorrow (Friday), we're probably going to have to get an extension on that because our advisors indicate they won't be working much the next two weeks."

Campbell said he's proud that Wall has done such a good job over the years.

"It makes me proud to know everything is being taken care of the way I'd want it taken care of if I was here," Campbell said. "We have an outstanding teaching staff, administration, and a very cooperative school board. We have a great little school here."

Campbell admits that getting a taste of his old job has been enjoyable.

"It's been invigorating for me. There's no pressure, I'm just an interim. If something doesn't work out perfect, when the boss gets back he can take care of it," Campbell joked.

Seriously, he's had fun and was happy the school board asked for his help.

"I'm glad I could help out and I'm still very proud of White River Valley. We wish Layton all the luck in the world when he gets back," Campbell said.

Campbell said Wall will return for the second semester, and his final day will be next week or closer to the end of the month.

"I'll pretty well have everything wrapped up next Tuesday. I may have to come in a little over Christmas if I get some paperwork to sign on this remodeling project. Other than that, I'm done," Campbell explained.

What happens if another school corporation calls and needs help? Will he become a superintendent for hire?

"I'm just a White River Valley guy, so I wouldn't be interested," Campbell was quick to point out.