Hempfield Area school directors are accepting applications from residents interested in replacing Director David Higinbotham, whose resignation takes effect Sept. 1. Higinbotham, of Bovard, has served less than two years on the board. District officials said Monday he cited personal reasons for stepping aside. District administrators have set a noon Aug. 30 deadline for interested citizens to submit a resume outlining their qualifications for filling the vacancy. The resumes should be addressed to Superintendent Terry Foriska at the administration office at 4345 Route 136, Greensburg, 15601. Board members have scheduled a special meeting for Sept. 6 to consider choosing Higinbotham's replacement. District Solicitor Dennis Slyman said he will contact the Westmoreland County Election Bureau to determine whether the vacancy would go on the November ballot, in case a majority of directors fails to settle on one candidate within the 30-day window provided by state law. "We shouldn't let it go to an election," said John Henry, board president. In other action last night, the directors approved a $10 increase to the daily substitute teacher rate, boosting it to $90. After 20 consecutive days working within the district, a teacher will earn $95 daily for the remainder of the school year. Personnel Director George DeCaro recommended the higher rate to make Hempfield more competitive with neighboring districts. Board member Tim Miller voted for the increase, but asked for a monthly report of the substitute costs to make sure it doesn't hamper the adopted budget. "I'm just hoping we don't get caught at the end of the year," Miller said.

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