Double loss

Sidney receives resignation of middle school principal, basketball

Sidney lost its middle school principal and high school head boys basketball coach when Rollie Sullivan turned in his resignation Thursday.

Sullivan has accepted the position of high school principal in Kamiah, Idaho.

“I wanted to continue to work in administration at a wage similar to where I’m at and be able to collect my retirement (from Montana),” Sullivan said.

In Montana, educators can’t receive their retirement package and also continue working for schools. “You’re up against it in Montana.”

Kamiah’s high school enrollment is between 250-275 students. There’s a possibility that Sullivan may coach the girls basketball team at the school.

After turning down other job offers in Wyoming and North Dakota, the main reason Sullivan accepted the position in Idaho is location. Kamiah is about two hours away from Missoula.

Even though as of now, it appears that his wife, Sandy, and youngest two children, Jordan and Ryan, are staying in Sidney, Rollie feels the move is the best for the family’s future.

“I think in the long run, we will think it’s a great move,” Sullivan said. “I wish I had won the lottery and wouldn’t have to do anything.”

The hope is Jordan, an All-State basketball player who is entering her junior year in high school, ends up playing at the University of Montana. Jordan’s uncle Robin Selvig is the head coach for the Lady Griz.

“As long as she stays away from injuries, we think she has a chance to play there,” Sullivan said. “We would be able to see every home Lady Griz basketball game if she plays.”

He notes the Kamiah area, located at the banks of the Clearwater River, offers great fishing and hunting, which Ryan will enjoy. The location is also closer to Bozeman where older daughter and son Ashley and Jace Sullivan reside.

Rollie Sullivan said he will miss many people in the community including the middle school staff.

He will also miss his players and coaches in the basketball program.

“I’ve enjoyed doing the basketball. This summer, I’ve seen a lot of growth with the kids. They are going to be real competitive,” Sullivan said. “I think the Eagles will be a force again this year.”

editor@sidneyherald.com