OBSERVER Photos by
Braden Carmen
Sheila Hahn was recognized by the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) for her efforts as a member of the Fredonia Board of Education.
Newly-elected President Steve Johnston and Sheila Hahn were honored with certificates of recognition. NYSSBA rewards board members with recognition based on their professional development, inquiries on how to improve, and the attendance of conferences and workshops.
The recognition was not the first time in recent years that Fredonia got statewide recognition from NYSSBA. Last year, teachers Nick Bertrando and Joanne Lotter were named “Champions for Change” for their new course, Personal Fitness and Nutrition.
Also of note at a recent meeting, the district filled a need in its World Languages department. Lucas Paredes Fuentes was hired to a four-year probationary position as a Spanish teacher. Fuentes, a State University at Fredonia graduate, was a student teacher at Fredonia High School last year. He grew up on Long Island as an English as a New Language student, which Brad Zilliox, district superintendent, said should give him a strong understanding of how students process learning a new language.
“We’re excited to have Lucas coming onboard,” Zilliox said.
Steve Johnston was recognized by the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) for his efforts as a member of the Fredonia Board of Education.
Johnston responded to Zilliox by stating that Fuentes “sounds like a good hire.”
The district also approved the probationary appointment of Amy Johnson to the position of school secretary. Permanent status of employment was also granted to Ryan Lepp, network technician, and to Andrea Blandin, certified occupational therapist.
Per diem substitute teachers Leah Bennet and Lori Szymczak were also appointed. Summer school employees were also appointed, including Kathryn Brown, Elizabeth Bumpus, Mimi Joint, Molly Williams, Sebastian Guerra, Dan Kondrick, Ella Wiggers, Caitie Berndtson, Susan Walterich, and Lucas Paredes Fuentes.
The district also accepted the resignation of three teacher Aides: Amber Meli, Lindsey Meka, and Michelle Hamilton.