Posted: 7/27/04
New administrators attend first school board meeting
by Jane Palen
Managing Editor
New superintendent Michael Moriarty and new high school principal Ron Helmers attended their first school board meeting in the district July 19.
Principal Helmers reported that test results for advanced placement in history and English have been received. In history, eight of the 11 students who took the test scored ģ3ī or above, which means they are eligible for college credit. He noted that the students and teacher, Carol Sweeney Marnach, put in many extra hours preparing for the test.
In English, four of the 19 students who took the advanced placement test scored ģ3ī or above.
On another matter, Helmers said that scheduling in the high school is 80 percent complete.
On a personal note, Helmers said that he and his wife will be moving to Caledonia in a month.
In her report to the board, elementary principal Connie Hesse encouraged board members to view the new mural on the east side of the school. The mural is called ģThe Secret Kindergartenī which is based on the book ģThe Secret Gardenī by Francis Hodgson Burnett. The mural is an Eagle Scout project of Duane Miller, and Michelle Werner has helped with the artwork. When school is in session, kindergartners will help maintain the plants and flowers.
Hesse also displayed some of the new elementary school packets that have been assembled with a supply lists and other information for students and parents.
Speech/language vacancy concerns board
In other news, the board accepted the resignation of Michelle Roberts as a speech/language teacher. Superintendent Michael Moriarty noted that ģIt will take a miracleī to fill the position before the school year begins. However, those services can be contracted.
A resignation from Julie Hauser as assistant volleyball coach was also accepted.
In other personnel matters, the board approved the hiring of James Gladis as EBD instructor and Keith Hilson as band director. He will also direct the jazz band, marching band and pep band.
In a related matter, Moriarty said that he would provide resumes of new hires so that those not on the hiring committee can learn more about the teachers who will be working in the district.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com