(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board, during their regular meeting this week, accepted the resignations of several teachers and approved the hiring of several new teachers.

Following three executive sessions totaling more than an hour, the board accepted the resignations of Linda Barnhill as 6th grade language arts teacher, Jill Hrencher as 7th grade math teacher, Halee Andrushchenko as high school language arts teacher and Kendelle Runer as 3rd grade teacher. Hrencher is retiring after 15 years in the district.

The board approved the hiring of Kelli Cheek as high school language arts teacher, Regan Jacobson as 4th grade teacher and Kent Michel as elementary school STEAM teacher.

In addtion, the board vpted to extend the contracts of the district's three building principals and curriculum coordinator,Jean Brintnall, through the 2022-23 school year.

In other business, bids were reviewed for elementary school parking lot improvements. On the recommendation of District Maintenance Director Chris Morey, the board voted 5-2 to accept a bid from J & B Contractors in the amount of $65,561 for the entire project. The bid includes dirt, electrical and concrete work. Board members Andrea Groth and John Wright casting the dissenting votes.

On the recommendation of District Tech Systems Administrator Tim Gilbert, the board approved the purchase of 175 Chromebooks at a cost of $48,300 for middle and high school students.

At the beginning of the meeting, Board President Tom Simmer presented a certificate of appreciation to Red Hawk Booster Club representatives Jeremy Stover and Jodi Twombly in recognition of the Booster Club's continued support of high school athletics. So far this school year, Simmer noted the Booster Club has donated more than $25,000 to high school teams. Club President Jeremy Stover said they could not have provided the funds without the generous support of local businesses.