The new school year is fast approaching, and Dunkirk City School District officials offered updates this week on preparation for it.

Mark Frazier, district human resources director, said there are now 3.5 positions open. “The wheels are still moving forward, but as the wheels are moving forward, we still get resignations and we still have positions to fill,” he said.

A half-time physical therapist and full time secondary school counselor position are still open. A health teacher position just opened after the previous occupant transferred to physical education. Finally, a special education position is open; however, Frazier said an applicant is well into the hiring process.

Frazier said there are four applicants for the health teacher and five for the counselor. “A very curious thing” is occurring with the counselor applicants: they are not returning the district’s communications, Frazier said.

The board made some hires this week. Chanceton Puinno of Lockport was approved as the new assistant director of special education. Caitlin Kazmierczak, Elizabeth Wronski and Adam Wolfley were hired as teachers, while Anna Evans was named a substitute.

The district also brought in five teacher aides: Marjorie Barreto Rios, Jillian Campbell, Jessica Hochstine, Kristine Perry and Luz Walls.

“We’re very hopeful that by Sept. 3rd we will be reporting to you that all positions are filled,” Frazier said.

Superintendent Michael Mansfield showed a list of 2024-25 class sizes in kindergarten through sixth grades. The largest class will be 20 students. Mansfield said the list compares favorably with school districts of a similar size to Dunkirk.

There was also a reminder of the district’s Back to School Bash. It’s set for Aug. 26 from 4-7 p.m. at Point Gratiot Park. The annual year-opening event is intended as a way for students and parents to meet teachers and staff in an informal, fun setting.