Hayward School Board re-elects officers

Three newly-elected Hayward Community Schools Board of Education members—Kraig Olson, Stacey Hessel and Derek Hand—recited their oath of office as they were sworn in during the board’s special meeting Monday May 6.

The board unanimously re-elected Derek Hand as board president, Mike Kelsey as vice-president, Lynell Swenson as clerk and Dr. Harry Malcolm as treasurer.

In actions Monday, the board:

•• Approved a report from Finance Director Jenifer Frank on how the federal covid relief funds, known as ESSER III, are being spent.

•• Approved additional staff (half-time lead teacher plus aide) for the wrap-round portion of the 4K program, for which 62 students are signed up.

•• Approved an annual services agreement with Cooperative Educational Services Agency (CESA) 12, and appointed Dr. Malcolm as delegate to the annual convention of CESA.

•• Received letters of resignation from Alicia Wiebe, special education teacher; Jamie Vogt, fifth grade teacher; Amber Poppe, assistant volleyball coach; and Jeffrey Talbot, custodian.

Community education coordinator Meredith Ingbretson updated the board on a survey to be sent out to school staff and Tamarack Health staff. The goal is to have classes taking place by September this year.

The facilities committee toured the cardio equipment in the new high school fitness center. The new facilities will be open to student athletes starting July 8 and to adults in early September.

Supt. Olson said he is trying to get a “super anchor” sponsor for new scoreboards. An anchor sponsorship would cost $5,000 per year for five years. The scoreboards are planned to be in use starting in the 2024-25 winter sports season.

The board designated Mike Kelsey and Shane Poppe to help hand out diplomas to HHS graduating seniors during commencement Friday May 24. The ceremony will again be held at the Rod Lundberg football field, weather permitting.

Curriculum and programs coordinator Kelly Ryder reported that all state testing of students has been completed.

Ryder reported that a grant has been received to continue an AmeriCorps farm to school staff position for 2024-25, plus two AmeriCorps persons at the primary school.

Ryder updated the board on the history of student accountability and testing in the Hayward Community Schools. A document is available for viewing on the district’s website.