(KNZA)---The Hiawatha School Board Monday evening adopted new graduation requirements that will take effect with the class of 2028.

The new requirements, approved by the Kansas State Board of Education, are designed to better prepare students for higher education or the workforce.

Hiawatha High School Principal Lori Fordyce laid out a detailed plan at last month's board meeting to make sure the new requirements are met.

In other business, the board approved the 2024-25 school calendar. The first day of school will be August 15 and the last day of school will be May 21.

Following an executive session, the board accepted two resignations and approved several new hires.

The board accepted the resignations of Jean Brintnall as curriculum director and Tom Schmitz as 6th grade math teacher, effective at the end of the school year.

The board approved the hiring of Heather Maze as 7th grade math teacher for next school year.

In addition, the board approved the hiring of Wyatt Jiru as head high school football coach for the 2024-25 school year on a 6-1 vote. Board member Ryan Patton cast the lone dissenting vote.

The board also approved the hiring of Sara Campbell as head middle school track coach and Robyn Saunders as assistant middle school track coach for the upcoming track season.