Norwalk hires new school treasurer

New full-time Norwalk City Schools treasurer Joyce Dupont has a passion for finances and experience in three area school systems."I'm excited the district had the opportunity to bring someone on board with her level of experience," Superintendent George Fisk said.During a special meeting Wednesday, the school board hired Dupont on a three-year contract starting July 1 on a salary of $92,500. From April 4 through June 30, she will have a daily rate of $355.77.Dupont earlier worked for the district for seven years, first as a bus driver and the last six in the treasurer's office under Kenneth France."Then I went to South Central as a treasurer," Dupont said.After four-plus years in South Central Local Schools, she was treasurer for the Clyde-Green Springs Exempted Village School District. Dupont has been there for the last four years."I wouldn't leave just anywhere but to come home," she said. "I graduated from Perkins, but I've lived here (in Norwalk) for 20-some years."This is a great town. I love Norwalk," she added with enthusiasm. "We have a thriving downtown. We have great bike trails."Dupont, an avid outdoors woman, intended to become a teacher, but once she had experience in the Norwalk school treasurer's office, she quickly realized she found her niche."As soon as I was in the treasurer's office, I knew I loved it," said Dupont with a big smile. "You know what you do is important."Dupont, who enjoys all aspects of being a district treasurer, earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from Ashland University. Her master's in education is from Wilkes University, an online program through the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials.She was one of 11 applicants for the Norwalk treasurer's job."I love the district. I love the community. I really love every aspect of it," Dupont said about her new position.Board president Rob Ludwig said hiring someone with experience in school finances was vital."We're excited to have a home-grown person — someone who has returned home. Her level of expertise is outstanding," he said.Dupont