SUNY Fredonia graduate takes FCS science job
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Ava Waterman won't have to travel far for her first teaching job. This fall, she makes the jump from SUNY Fredonia to the Fredonia Central School District as Fredonia's new Science Teacher.
Waterman graduated from SUNY Fredonia with a Bachelor's Degree in Adolescence Education: Biology and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Inclusive Education. Waterman holds Initial Certification in Biology (Grades 7-12).
Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox characterized Waterman as positive and upbeat, and added that she seems ready to begin her career at Fredonia. She did her student teaching at the Bemus Point Central School District, with experience at the Dunkirk City School District, as well.
"She brings that positive energy - brand new teacher, ready to get started. She's just full of sunshine," said Middle School Principal Jamie Polhamus.
The Board also appointed nine new Teacher Aides for the 2026-27 school year, effective Aug. 31. The newly appointed Teacher Aides are Virginia Harper, Bethany Dybka, Kathleen Cicelske, Katie Friend, Sara Sunick, Chloe Look, Annika Samuelson, Morgan Byham, and Pamela Tuczynski. The Board also appointed Deborah Bleck as a Food Service Helper.
Four Teacher Aides - Katrina Harper, Karin Wheelock, Morrigan Waller, and Heather Shellenburg - were granted permanent status of employment, effective Aug. 26., as was Food Service Helper Gary Butler. The Board also accepted the resignation of Christine Yost, Teacher Aide, effective Aug. 13.
The Board approved a series of per diem substitutes, including Sandy Forbes (Clerical), Francesca Woolson (Non-Certified Teacher, Teacher Aide), Julia Gugino (Non-Certified Teacher, Teacher Aide, Teacher Assistant, Food Service Helper), Julienelle Melgar Torres (Cleaner), Yosuam Robles (Groundskeeper), Julian Ocasio (Cleaner, Groundskeeper), Aiden Bell (Food Service Helper), and recently retired Fredonia Teacher Carol Zirkle (Certified Teacher).
Avery Boyles and Elizabeth Nau were appointed as Extended Leave Substitutes. Brandy Kachelmeyer was appointed to the position of 10-Day Athletic Nurse. Food Service Helpers Shirley Dugay and Julie DePasquale had their hours adjusted.
A series of coaching positions were adjusted, pertaining to the football and volleyball programs. Sebastian Guerra is the modified football coach, while Matt Polvino and Nick Whitfield will serve as volunteer assistant football coaches. Mary Beach and Laura Haase resigned as modified volleyball coaches, while Mary Ivory took on the role of modified volleyball coach.
Extra hours for all full-time Teacher Aides and Teacher Assistants were approved, as needed, for the 2026-27 school year. All district teachers were also approved as Home Instructors for the year.
The Board approved the official tax warrant for the 2026-27 school year, with the collection of taxes to begin Sept. 1. Taxes will be interest-free through Oct. 3, with 2% interest added to any unpaid taxes from Oct. 4 through Oct. 31, and a 3% interest for any taxes paid Nov. 1-3. The total amount to be raised by taxes amounts to $17,912,595.
The Board also approved a contract with Children's Educational Services, Inc. for occupational therapy services at a cost of $21,105 for the 2026-27 school year.
The next regular Fredonia Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m. in the High School Library.