CHAMPAIGN — While Judy Wiegand says she is excited about the opportunity to become Champaign's next interim superintendent in January, she said on Monday night that she will not be a candidate for the permanent position.

"I'm very excited," said Wiegand, current assistant superintendent for achievement and pupil services. "I've been with the district for 25 years. As we looked at the second semester, I said I would certainly be willing to help out."

Wiegand said she is not applying for the permanent superintendent position and plans to return to her job as assistant superintendent after the permanent superintendent has been hired.

During a special meeting Monday, the Champaign school board met in closed session for more than an hour in part to talk about the search for the next permanent superintendent but took no action on the issue.

Interim Superintendent Robert Malito said no vote by the school board is necessary for Wiegand to assume her new duties in January because it is considered a change in assignment, not a new hiring.

"I think she will be outstanding," Malito said. "She has loyalty, dedication and compassion for the district. She has knowledge of curriculum and special education, has worked in the district office for a number of years and has been one of the building principals at Centennial High School."

Malito said he has already begun providing training to Wiegand to help her take over the superintendent role in January, when Malito's state regulated 100 days of service are expected to run out.

Malito said he has enjoyed his time working with Champaign schools.

"I thank everyone for the opportunity, and I would do it again if asked to," he said.

In other action, the school board voted 6-0 to sell kitchen equipment that is being replaced in the family and consumer sciences department Central High School.

Money from the sale will go back to the department, Wiegand said.