OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox commended Nicole Kane, who was recently awarded a tenured teaching position, at the most recent meeting of Fredonia’s Board of Education.

The Fredonia Central School District granted tenure to another of its teachers at the most recent meeting of its Board of Education.

Nicole Kane has been awarded a tenured position at the Elementary level. Kane, an Elementary Computer Teacher, has professional certifications in Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 2), Childhood Education (Grades 1-6), and English to Speakers of Other Languages.

Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox said Kane has “done a great job” coming into the role as a computer teacher and evolving into more of a STEM role at the elementary level. He credited Kane for having “a very positive energy, positive attitude, and a very welcoming environment.”

Kane prepared a statement thanking Zilliox, Curriculum Director Dr. Margie Wright, Elementary Principal Mark Drollinger, and the Board of Education, which she read aloud at the recent meeting.

“I’ve enjoyed every moment working with all of the students and staff. I have encouraged all of the students to explore the world of technology through many outlets … and I’m excited to continue my career here,” Kane said.

The District also accepted another retirement resignation, as Early Childhood Teacher Jennifer Smith joined the list of employees set to retire from the District at year’s end.

Zilliox said Smith encompasses many of the finest qualities of Wheelock as a nurturing, welcoming and positive impact on the District’s youngest students. He said Smith “does a fantastic job” and “will absolutely be missed.”

The District accepted three other resignations: Tammy Breth, Food Service Worker; Amy Jonsson, School Secretary; and Antonette Backert, Elementary School Psychologist, effective March 13.

In other personnel moves, Cecilia Donisi was approved for permanent appointment as a Teacher Aide. Megan Narraway was permanently appointed as School Nurse Assistant. Haleigh Miller and Ryan Williams were each appointed to probationary Teacher Aide positions.

The Board approved the non-probationary appointments of two Extended Leave Substitute teachers, Larissa Morris and Michelle Meli. The District also hired per diem substitutes Sarah Hamilton, Kesleigh Dobbins, Alexis Delcamp, and Ashlynn Delcamp, who will serve as a lifeguard.

The District also welcomed 18 college students for student teaching, internships or observation during the spring semester. Additionally, John Szymusiak will observe Music Department Instructional Leader Andy Bennett May 19-23.

Also of note, the Board awarded a bid to McIntosh & McIntosh in the amount of $14,500 for a topographic survey at the Wheelock School campus. Zilliox, Business Administrator John Forbes, and architects from Young and Wright recommended the bid to the Board.

The survey will cover portions of the Wheelock campus as the District proceeds with its capital improvements that were approved by voters in Proposition 1 of the recent capital project vote. One of the key improvements set for the Wheelock campus is a new playground. The District’s main campus playground will be addressed with a capital outlay project this summer to allow for increased accessibility for all students.

The Board also approved a transportation contract with First Student to transport students from Dunkirk to Fredonia at a rate of $52.50 per day, beginning Feb. 14 through June 25.

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