(KNZA)--The Hiawatha school board has approved the hiring a consultant to assist the district in planning for its long range facility needs.

Following a presentation, the Board Monday evening voted to enter into a contact with Jerry McCall of Educational Consulting Services, of Lincoln, at a fee not to exceed $20,000.

Board President Ian Schuetz said McCall will develop a strategic plan to guide the district where it needs to be with its facilities going forward.

The plan will tell the district what’s needed and where its needed.

McCall is to complete the plan by April 30 of next year.

In other business, the Board voted to reinstate the powerlifting club at the high school.

High School Assistant Principal/Activities Director Kim Lillie said there was a powerlifting club at the high school several years ago.  She said the main expense would be that of a coach, which Chris Diller has offered to do.

The Board approved several hirings.  Among those are Jean Brintnall as curriculum and assessment coordinator, Brian Lillie as 8th grade science teacher and Michael Meinert as high school PE/weights teacher and assistant football coach.

The Board accepted the retirement resignations of two long time teachers, effective at the end of the 2019-20 school year.  They include 7th grade social studies teacher Dixie Pethoud and middle school Title 1 teacher Michelle Vitt.

Also accepted the retirement resignation of kindergarten para Bernadette Stinson, effective immediately.  
       
In other action, the Board accepted a bid from IAO Electric, of rural Hiawatha, for installation of the new high school stage lighting at a cost not to exceed $12,000, and a bid from Keebler Electric, of rural Highland, for the replacement of the bus electrical plugs at a cost of $13,313.   The Board also gave District Maintenance Supervisor Matt Cluck approval to seek bids the replacement of the bus barn roof.