OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Fredonia Board of Education President Steve Johnston and the Board expressed regret for several retirements being approved at a recent Board meeting.

The Fredonia Central School District will have plenty of vacancies to fill by next school year as a wave of retirements were recently approved by the Board of Education.

Among the recently approved retirements were Beth Merwin, High School Social Studies Teacher; Lisa Forbes, Grade 5 Teacher; and Randy Penharlow, Mechanic II/Groundskeeper. All three resignations are effective July 1.

Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox called Merwin “a steady, consistent, level-headed voice” in the High School. He characterized Merwin as a “cornerstone” of the social studies department and credited her passion for teaching and content, but also for what is right and putting students first.

“She has been a fantastic family member to the High School and to our kids,” High School Principal Darrin Paschke said. He also noted her care for students in bringing food for students who were not eating at school.

Merwin has taught various levels of social studies courses at Fredonia, including AP courses in U.S. History and Human Geography, the only AP course for ninth grade students.

“She loves her kids. She loves the school. She puts in every minute of every day,” Paschke said. “… I wish her the best. She’s fantastic.”

Forbes, a longtime teacher of fifth grade, was characterized by Middle School Principal Jamie Polhamus as a “true asset” to the District. Polhamus also noted how she genuinely cares for her students, while Zilliox also described Forbes as caring, nurturing and supportive of her students.

“I feel like Lisa really takes her students under her wings, and if you happen to be in Mrs. Forbes’ class, you’re in the club. She’s going to do everything she can to coach you up and make sure you’re in a good place,” Zilliox said.

The timing lined up perfectly for Forbes to retire as she crossed the threshold this year to become eligible to retire. She looks forward to spending more time with family and friends.

“I have absolutely cherished my time here at Fredonia. Being a career person in fifth grade has been a delight and an honor for me,” Forbes said.

Board of Education President Steve Johnston spoke to how Penharlow is described as “the heart and soul of the inner workings of the building.”

Zilliox added that Penharlow is very knowledgeable, responsive, and maintains a calm demeanor while solving problems as they come. “Certainly, Randy is a hard worker who gets things done,” Zilliox said.

Business Administrator John Forbes said Penharlow’s departure will leave a big hole in the maintenance department. He characterized Penharlow as “very dedicated” to all his duties, from snow plowing and mowing lawns to various maintenance needs. Forbes said, “We get along well and he’s very dependable. Certainly, any time I call him, any time of day, he’s very willing to respond.”

Other personnel moves at the District include the resignation of Christina DeJesus, Teacher Aide; the appointment of Cassandra Dolaway, non-certified Substitute Teacher; the appointment of Lenieth Velez-Olmo as a certified Lifeguard Substitute; and the approval of Cindy Wei for observation of Andy Bennett, Director of Instruction for the Fredonia Music Department.

The next meeting of the Fredonia Board of Education is Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m.