Gowanda hires two new teachers

GOWANDA -- Two new teachers have joined the Gowanda Central School District, as their hires were made official at a recent Board of Education meeting.

Jamie McEwen was appointed to an Elementary teaching position. McEwen, certified in Early Childhood Education (B-2) and Childhood Education (1-6), comes to Gowanda after previously working in the Hamburg Central School District. McEwen is a graduate of SUNY Fredonia.

Tara Morris was appointed to a General Special Education teaching position. Morris possesses certification in Students with Disabilities (B-2) and (1-6); Early Childhood Education (B-2); Childhood Education (1-6); Gifted Education Extension; and Music. Morris graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from SUNY Fredonia and a Master's Degree from St. Bonaventure University. Morris previously worked as a Special Education teacher at North Collins Elementary School.

The Board of Education also approved the Student Family Handbook for elementary, middle and high school students; the District Wide Safety Plan; and the Smart Schools Investment Plan.

Also approved at the recent meeting of the Board of Education was the creation of a new scholarship, to be known as the Rock the Moose for Higher Education Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded annually to one male and one female student each year, in the amount of $500 each, to be applied toward higher education. Entrants must complete at least 20 hours of community service during their senior year to be eligible. Applicants can apply through the Gowanda Loyal Order of Moose Chapter 1382.

The Gowanda Trap Team also received a $3,881 donation from Tri-State Firearms and a donation of $947.41 from CHG Concrete and Construction to cover the cost of Gowanda Trap Team shirts.

Also at the recent meeting, Superintendent Dr. Robert Anderson stated the pool repairs are still on track to be finished within the next calendar year; the gym floors are being refinished this summer; the elementary school playground equipment has been ordered; and the Hillis Field Scoreboard will be replaced Sept. 18.