Marion Local Board Accepts Staff Resignations, Approves Hires and Fund Transfer

MARIA STEIN — The Marion Local Board of Education approved several staffing changes, accepted donations, and transferred funds for future building needs during its Monday evening meeting, according to Superintendent Mike Pohlman.

Pohlman said the board accepted the resignations of Gail Mueller as teacher and National Honor Society advisor, Ben Salazar as teacher and Spanish Club advisor, Alex Hamilton as teacher and junior high track coach, Jerry Everman as bus driver, and Sue Bruns as bowling coach.

The board also approved several hires and position changes. Pohlman said Joel Billings was hired as a high school teacher, Dana Hughes was hired as an elementary teacher, and Veronica Bertke was approved for transfer as elementary secretary and school nurse. Treva Forkamp was also hired as a groundskeeper on an as needed basis.

Board members approved FMLA leave for Laura Walters and also approved a list of fall coaches for football, volleyball, golf, and cross country. Pohlman said the board also approved a number of contract renewals involving certified, non certified, administrative, and supervisory staff.

In other action, the board approved a first reading of several NEOLA policy updates and approved a list of prospective graduates for the Class of 2026. The board also approved an agreement with the Mercer County ESC for the next school year.

Pohlman said the board approved a 500 thousand dollar transfer from the general fund to the capital fund for upcoming repairs and other capital expenses.

The board also accepted several donations tied to the boys basketball team’s state tournament run.

The board also approved group workers compensation through Sedgwick, and renewed Forecast 5 software.

Pohlman said Technology Coordinator Michelle Mescher updated the board on purchases of network switches, access points, and computers for the new facility project.

High School Principal Tim Goodwin congratulated students and staff on a successful production of Aladdin Jr. and also recognized the high school’s five star rating. Elementary Principal Kelly Tobey also congratulated her staff and students on the elementary’s five star rating and discussed the upcoming spring open house on April 16th.

Treasurer Ryan Goldschmidt provided an update on the fund transfer and thanked those who donated to support the state tournament boys basketball team.

Pohlman also updated the board on the facility project and storm related wind damage that occurred in March.

The next regular Marion Local Board of Education meeting is scheduled for May 11th at 7 p.m.