By Ryan Arena

L’Observateur

RESERVE – East St. John may not be on the lookout for a new athletic director and football coach after all.

A number of school employees who last week learned their contracts may not be renewed may be granted a reprieve because of a law passed in 2001 granting tenure rights to certified teachers after three years and one day at a given job.

Dauterive, who began working at ESJ in 2002, would fall well within that range.

“It looks like it could work out. I’m relieved and happy about it,” said Dauterive, who began spring practice with his team this week.

“The superintendent didn’t rest on her laurels and on one lawyer’s information. She kept digging. I know she’s never wanted to let any of us go, and I’m glad she’s pursued it further.”

School Superintendent Courtney Millet said roughly $3 million must be cut from the budget before next year.

But with eight years in the system, Dauterive is considered tenured under this law and therefore will likely be protected, Millet said.

The retirees who were sent the letters are protected under this law, so they have to be considered on an individual basis against other school system employees.

According to Millet, the main criteria will be seniority, taking into account only the years they’ve been back in the school system.

Dauterive is wrapping up his eighth year with the school.

“Last week felt like five days of purgatory,” said Dauterive.

“Now, I just hope to see my contract renewed on July 1, just like always.”