OBSERVER Photos by Braden Carmen Dominic Hitchcock, a Middle School Social Studies Teacher, spoke about the “meaningful milestone” of achieving tenure at Fredonia at a recent Board of Education meeting.

Nine employees recently hit a major milestone in their careers at the Fredonia Central School District. The Board of Education granted tenure to nine teachers at a recent meeting, including Dominic Hitchcock, Rhea Nelson, Steven Swart, Amy Zappie, April Powers, Heidi Bates, Tyler Burkett, Jessica Kwiatkowski, and Michelle Russ.

“We are really, really lucky to have this incredible wealth of knowledge. All of these candidates for tenure really care deeply for their students and for each other. That’s just a wonderful boon and blessing to all of us,” said Fredonia Teachers’ Association President Michelle Greenough. “I want to congratulate all of them on achieving tenure. It’s a huge milestone and I’m so proud of them.”

Hitchcock, a Middle School Social Studies Teacher, has Initial Certification in Social Studies Grades 7-12. Hitchcock worked his way up in the district to eventually earn a teaching position. He also coaches football at Fredonia.

Middle School Principal Jamie Polhamus called Hitchcock “a trusted adult to many of our middle school students.” Hitchcock said he is “deeply honored and grateful” to the district and the Board of Education for granting him tenure.

“Fredonia has become so much more than just a place to work. It has become a community that I’m proud to be a part of,” Hitchcock said. “… Receiving tenure is a meaningful milestone. However, I do not see it as an endpoint, but rather as a renewed commitment. I look forward to continuing to educate my students with passion and purpose, and to contribute positively to our school community.”

Nelson, an Elementary Teacher, has Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6 and Students With Disabilities Grades 1-6. Elementary Principal Mark Drollinger defined Nelson as “calm, cool, and collected.” He added that Nelson handles everything that has been thrown at her with grace.

Nelson said Drollinger and the rest of the district’s administration have all been very supportive during her time at Fredonia. Nelson came to Fredonia after spending 15 years in the field elsewhere. “I’m glad to say that I will finish my career here, in 15 more years,” Nelson said.

Swart, an Elementary Teacher, has Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6. Drollinger said it has been a pleasure to see Swart grow both professionally and personally with his young family. He specifically highlighted Swart’s efforts with the school’s video announcements.

“It’s an honor to accept tenure here at Fredonia,” Swart said. “… From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and encouraged to grow as an educator. I hope that throughout my time here, I have demonstrated not only my commitment to teaching, but also my commitment to the school community. … Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for the opportunity. I’m proud to be a part of Fredonia.”

Zappie, an Elementary Teacher, has Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6, Early Childhood Education Birth-Grade 2, and Students With Disabilities Grades 1-6. Drollinger said that Zappie “brings a positive attitude every day.” He credited her ability to bring her colleagues together to work toward a common goal.

Zappie, like Nelson, came to Fredonia with 15 years of experience elsewhere. She said she was welcomed with open arms by the Fredonia staff, and is happy to work in the district her children attend.

Powers, an Elementary Teacher, has Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6, Early Childhood Education Birth-Grade 2, Students With Disabilities Grades 1-6, and Students With Disabilities Birth-Grade 2. Drollinger credited Powers for her drive to keep growing and learning as a professional. He defined her as a “well-rounded teacher” both academically and behaviorally.

Powers also joined Fredonia from another district, just like Zappie and Nelson did. Her children also attend Fredonia schools. “I’m excited to continue working here and watching students progress throughout the years to come,” Powers said.

Bates, a Special Education Teacher, has Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6, Early Childhood Education Birth-Grade 2, Students With Disabilities Grades 1-6, and Students With Disabilities Birth-Grade 2.

Director of Special Education Kristen Ferro said that Bates is able to understand the needs of her students “masterfully.” Ferro characterized Bates as “a model of kindness” and a “quiet leader” who is highly respected by her colleagues.

Ferro added that one thing that stands out about Bates is “every student in her classroom is celebrated and valued as an individual, a learner, and part of her classroom community.” Bates thanked the district for letting her “join the Fredonia family.”

Burkett, a Special Education Teacher, has Initial Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6, and Professional Certification in Early Childhood Education Birth-Grade 2, Students With Disabilities Grades 1-6, and Students With Disabilities Birth-Grade 2. Ferro credited Burkett for consistently seeking opportunities to grow professionally at Fredonia.

“What’s most impressive is Tyler’s ability to reach students and move them along in terms of academic growth despite any presenting social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. He consistently demonstrates empathy, flexibility, and he’s firm with his expectations,” Ferro said. “… Tyler shows over and over again his drive to help children reach their potential. He’s a natural teacher and a natural leader. We’re fortunate to have Tyler as part of our team.”

Burkett said as soon as he came to Fredonia, he was welcomed by his colleagues, and the district helped him grow as a professional. He thanked the district for all of the opportunities he has been provided since coming to Fredonia.

Kwiatkowski, a Special Education Teacher, has Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6, Early Childhood Education Birth-Grade 2, Students With Disabilities Grades 1-6, and Students With Disabilities Birth-Grade 2, Literacy

Grades 5-12, Literacy Birth-Grade 6, and

English Language Arts Grades 7-9 Extension.

Ferro credited Kwiatkowski for always taking the time to get to know each of her students’ strengths in order to capitalize on them through her instruction. Ferro described Kwiatkowski as someone who “exudes positivity and enthusiasm”, and ensures that her students feel a “sense of belonging.”

Kwiatkowski thanked the district for what she called “a great opportunity.” She said she is “honored” to be at Fredonia.

Russ, a Music Teacher, has Professional Certification in Music. Polhamus described Russ as a “huge asset” to the district’s music department.

“She is passionate about her craft and thoughtful in how she engages students in lessons, as well as in ensembles,” Polhamus said. “… In addition to her passion for developing musicians, she is vested in just developing well-rounded students and humans. We are very grateful to have her.”

The tenured status of employment with the district for all nine teachers will commence prior to the first day of school this coming fall.