Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First

Three Kimball Public Schools Staffers Set To Resign

The public filled the room this past Monday, March 11, for the regular Board of Education meeting. Teachers and parents gathered to hear public comments regarding the rumors of a multiple staff positions that may not remain.

Mary Lynch kindergarten teacher Cathy Flores spoke during public comments about the possibility of Kimball Public Schools cutting multiple staff jobs or not rehiring for such positions as a reading teacher, third grade teacher, fifth/sixth grade teacher, counselor, school nurse and kindergarten teacher.

"We as teachers, are always told we need to do what is best for our students," Flores said. "How is this best for our students? We can't raise the pay but we can promote our culture here."

Comment from Superintendent Dr. Owens were not available at time of press.

Three KPS staff members turned in resignation letters to the Board of Education this past week.

During the meeting, the board was asked to discuss, consider and take all necessary action regarding the resignations of Luke Dea, 7-12 social science teacher; Tiffany Dea, kindergarten teacher; and Julianne Lukassen, Mary Lynch School nurse. All three staff members will work until May 22, the last day of each contract.

In addition to Dea's resignation, the Observer was informed that Dea will reside in the community through the summer and will still be under contact for youth baseball and softball. However, due to a lack of participants, there will be no Legion baseball this year.

Also on the agenda was an item to discuss, consider and take action regarding approval of a new contract for Justin Mohr, special education teacher. Additional information on the new hire will be in an upcoming edition of the Observer.

Board members also addressed changes to the 2019-20 school year calendar that was also on the agenda Feb. 11 but tabled at that time in regard to multiple changes. The amended 2019-20 calendar was approved.

The board will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, March 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the high school library, and will meet for its next regular meeting April 8.