Blair Community Schools Board of Education roundup, Feb. 8

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BCS hires 3 new teachers

The Blair Community Schools Board of Education approved the hiring of three new teachers, all of whom are very familiar with the district, during its regular meeting Feb. 8.

Shannen Jennings, Kaylee Sorensen and Tatum Hartvigsen are all Blair High School alums.

Jennings, a 2015 BHS graduate, will teach sixth grade math at Otte Blair Middle School. She currently teaches at Millard West and has three years experience.

“She was just a rock star candidate. They are really high on her in Millard. But she wants to come home,” Supt. Randy Gilsons aid.

Sorensen, a 2013 BHS graduate, and Hartvigsen will teach fourth grade at Arbor Park Intermediate School. They both currently teach at Skyline Elementary in Elkhorn.

“We feel like we are getting two of Elkhorn's best,” Gilson said.

Resource teacher resigns

The board accepted the resignation of Dara Coffey, K-2 resource teacher, effective upon the conclusion of the 2020-21 school year. Coffey has taken another job elsewhere.

New computers ordered, old equipment sold

Kindergarten and first-graders will get new computers for the 2021-22 school year.

Mark Dickinson, director of technology, has ordered 300 computers from CDW Government. The total cost of the equipment is $95,682. Business Manager Tom Shearer anticipated using CARES Act 2 funds to cover the cost.

Dickinson was able to sell some older, used computers and technology equipment to B&W Liquidations for $9,340.

District receives grant, donations

BCS received a grant from the Walmart Community Grants Team for $1,100. The program provides grants to support needs of local communities.

The district also received donations from Nature Works and Evonik for $675 and $270, respectively, following the eighth grade science fair at Otte Blair Middle School.