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   With the beginning of school a few short weeks away administrative staff informed the board most critical positions have been filled at the regular board meeting held Wednesday, Aug. 16, with interviews for a few other positions being held the upcoming week.

   Elementary Principal/Activities Director Janessa Green shared with the board new positions for current staff, positions that have been filled by new employees and what positions are still currently open and needing filled. Green also mentioned when interviewing candidates, they have stated they have heard wonderful things about working at Northland and it seems Northland is a desirable place to work. The board was informed the school has received four applicants for the newly created Dean of Students position with interviews being held Tues., Aug. 22.

   In Green’s Athletic Director update, she shared there will be sports meetings held before each season begins and mentioned all three fall sports have games or meets within the next week. It was also noted the fitness center keys would be reset the first week of school again with them being reactivated when their annual membership is paid. Green also mentioned the new banners for the gym have been ordered and discussed a proposal for new window coverings to reduce glare from the morning sun. 

   Superintendent Mary Yakibchuk informed the board that the bus garage project is now complete, and shared some meeting opportunities for board members and staff to attend.

   In other Board action:

   • Approved the reassignment of board members to the Policy Committee with Linda Knox and Terri Nystrom now serving on the committee.

   • Held first readings of numerous policies and approved revisions on one policy.

   • Approved various handbooks for the 2023-2024 school year.

   • Approved the hire of Pat Kelehan as Cross Country coach, effective Aug. 1; Karissa Benoit at High School Social Worker, effective Aug. 28 and Kathryn Decker as Second Grade teacher, effective Aug. 28.

   The board has scheduled the following meetings: NREM first negotiations, Thurs., Aug. 31 at 4:30 p.m. and a regular meetings, Wed., Sept. 20 at 5:30 p.m. all meetings are held at Northland High School.

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