The next director of special services in Lehighton Area School District will be one of its own.

Samantha Kistler was hired Monday night at a salary of $92,000 to replace Mark McIntyre, who resigned effective Oct. 31.

Kistler is in her seventh year with the district, having worked as a special-education teacher and most recently as a high school life skills teacher.

“I’m overall looking forward to serving the students and staff of the district,” Kistler said. “Having been here and having those connections, I think will give me an advantage in the transition.”

Lehighton Superintendent Jonathan Cleaver said eight people applied for the position, four were given interviews and two finalists were brought in for second round interviews.

The interview committee then recommended Kistler for the position.

“Samantha brings with her a wealth of knowledge and a willingness to continue to learn, which is key with all the changes to the law that come along with special education,” Cleaver said. “She presented a great plan on how to move the department forward.”

Kistler’s hiring passed by an 8-1 motion, with only director David Bradley dissenting.

Bradley said he took issue with the fact that no board member was on the interviewing committee.

“I don’t think we should abdicate our authority and rubber stamp recommendations without receiving any data,” Bradley said.

“I don’t think anyone voting here tonight has even met this person.”

Kistler, however, has been in the district for over six years and Cleaver said that experience will play a key role in her potential success.

“She understands the district, understands the dynamic and it should make for a smooth transition,” Cleaver said. “We were excited to award her the opportunity to be part of our administrative team.”

Bradley also questioned why board members were not sent resumes from applicants for the position.

According to Cleaver, it was to keep personal information private, which he said has been a problem in the past.

“In the past you have posted resumes, phone numbers and other personal information,” Cleaver told Bradley. “Their current employers may not know they are applying for positions. Actions of the past have shown releasing those resumes is an unsafe practice.”