Submitted Photo Tim Kachelmeyer, School Safety Adviser, has earned a three-year extension with the Fredonia Central School District.

There are not many employees across Western New York that are as qualified to protect students and staff as Tim Kachelmeyer, Fredonia’s School Safety Adviser. The Fredonia Central School District and its Board of Education recognized the importance of Kachelmeyer’s role at a recent meeting with a new three-year contract.

“He is a true asset to the district,” Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox said. “(Kachelmeyer is) very committed, very dedicated, and he really cares about the Fredonia school community, as well as Fredonia in general.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Kachelmeyer will remain as the district’s School Safety Adviser through June 30, 2028. Kachelmeyer’s role is different from a traditional School Resource Officer in that he is an employee of the district, rather than of a law enforcement agency.

Kachelmeyer is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a former New York State Trooper for over 20 years. Along with his daily presence in the halls, Kachelmeyer supports the district through presentations and training, as well as collaboration with local agencies and departments. He supports both students and staff through times of crisis and provides deescalation strategies and support to whoever is in need, at the main campus and at the Wheelock campus.

“He knows our families, he knows our kids and their activities, and he makes connections in a number of different ways,” said High School Principal Ron Tonelli.

Zilliox stated that Kachelmeyer was “integral” in crafting the Districtwide School Safety Plan, which was approved by the Board of Education at the recent meeting, as well.

Kachelmeyer is a varsity girls flag football coach and a modified boys basketball coach at the district, as well as a youth football coach in Fredonia. He was not at the meeting for his contract approval because of his duties as a coach. Zilliox said that Kachelmeyer appreciates the vote of confidence from the Board and that he enjoys working for the district.

“He is a tremendous asset to our district,” Middle School Principal Jamie Polhamus said. “He is genuinely committed to raising good humans, good people in the world. We are so lucky to have him. I’m so grateful.”

The Board of Education also approved two Fredonia teachers for tenure at the recent meeting.

Amie Hofner, a Physical Education Teacher at the Wheelock campus, was approved for tenure effective Sept. 29.

Zilliox credited Hofner for how actively the students participate in her class each day. Students at Wheelock have physical education as a special course every day.

After thanking the district and the Board of Education, Hofner said, “The part that I love about my job is seeing the kids in the morning.”

Wheelock Principal Amy Piper credited Hofner for relating to the students through incorporating their own interests in her lessons. “We’re just thrilled she’s part of our Wheelock family,” Piper said.

Kayla Sullivan, a Speech and Language Teacher, was approved for tenure, effective Sept. 25. Sullivan is a graduate of Fredonia High School.

Director of Special Education Kristen Ferro said Sullivan’s key to success is “her natural affinity for collaboration.” Ferro characterized Sullivan as kind, caring, approachable, insightful, flexible, and as an advocate for her students. Ferro also noted that Sullivan “easily builds rapport with everyone she interacts with.”

Elementary Principal Mark Drollinger credited Sullivan’s character and credibility in supporting her tenure appointment. “The way that she handles kids is just magical,” Drollinger said. He added that Sullivan is one of the most knowledgeable people that he works with.

Zilliox added, “I really appreciate her positive energy and attitude. (She is) very welcoming, really goes out of her way to have students feel comfortable in her environment.”

Sullivan brought her therapy dog, Millie, with her to the meeting. She told the Board that she loves coming to work every day. “I love what I do. Millie gets to come in, and every day it’s something new,” Sullivan said. “Thank you guys for the opportunity.”

The Board also approved the permanent appointment status of employment for three Teacher Aides: Courtney (CJ) Barnett, Nicole Cosico, and Jolene Krigar.

Resignations were approved from Summer Klug, School Psychologist, and Jordan Salgado, Teacher Aide. Kim Gentry’s position as a sign language interpreter was reduced due to a lack of need.

A series of per diem substitutes were approved by the Board for various roles, including Jacqueleen Anderson (Nurse), Maxwell Baxter, Ronald Cruver, Lizmarie Pagan Fontan, Todd Huber, Kaylee Kocher, Joseph Laquidara, Miguel Ovando, David Paradis, Joshua Pierce, Jonathan Swift, and Gannon Zahn.

University students were approved for fieldwork, including Gina Alessi, Alexania Clarke, Liliana Foglia, Eva Gnadzinski, Aubrey Multunas, Phoenix Thomas, Samantha Visiko, Giancarlo White, and Kaelyn Wittshack.

The Board also approved paid coaches for the winter sports season, including Fredonia teachers Nick Bertrando and Brianne Flowers retaining their varsity basketball coaching duties. Coaches for indoor track, boys swimming, basketball cheerleading, bowling, and wrestling were also approved.

The next meeting of the Fredonia Board of Education is Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m.