Fredonia hires business, tech teachers
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The Fredonia Central School District has filled nearly all of its teaching vacancies with a few recent hires.
At a recent Board of Education meeting, Emily Johnson was appointed to a four-year probationary Business and Marketing teaching position. Johnson holds Initial Certification in Business and Marketing, and has taught at multiple districts. She also possesses a Master of Business Administration degree and has extensive professional experience in the field.
Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox said the district is "extremely happy" to have Johnson coming onboard. He said, "She brings a real nice mix of teaching experience, both at Catt. Little Valley and Jamestown, but also some experience in the field."
High School Principal Ron Tonelli highlighted Johnson's experience working with the Future Business Leaders of America, and expressed optimism that Johnson could implement those programs at Fredonia.
Board of Education President Steve Johnston said Johnson's experience in the field is "music to our ears."
The Board also recently approved the appointment of James Lehner as the district's new Technology Teacher. Lehner holds Professional Certification in Technology Education. He begins a four-year probationary appointment on schedule 11-M-33 of the Fredonia Teachers’ Association Contract.
Zilliox noted the difficulty to fill positions like Business and Technology teachers. In celebrating the district's recent hires, he emphasized the benefit of bringing experience outside of the classroom setting to students in such roles.
The district is still looking to fill one teaching vacancy, a Special Education Teacher in the Middle School.
The Board also approved a three-year contract extension between the district and Andrew Wheelock, Instructional Technology Specialist and Data Protection Officer, through the 2028-29 school year. Wheelock has been serving the district in the role for the past three years.
Dr. Margie Wright, Chief Officer for Curriculum and Human Resources, defined Wheelock as a "genuine, wonderful human being who just wants to help."
The next regular Fredonia Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. in the High School Library.