Cowden-Herrick School Board Approves Budget Cuts

Cowden-Herrick school board members Thursday reduced its staff for next year as they battle uncertainties over state funding.

Superintendent Darrell Gordon said the Board released elementary teacher Tracy Koester and high school teacher Shawn Beck, and also released bus aide Norma Collins, teacher aide Candace Wojcik, Herrick librarian Becky Wilson, and playground aide Tara Cox.  The Board also eliminated Stacy Heiserman's duties as part-time janitor, but retained her as a part-time cook.

Gordon said one dismissal was spared when Connie Smith decided to retire as a Kindergarten teacher.  He said the employees union has been working with the administration, and said more retirements are possible, so some of those cut could see their jobs restored.  Also, the decision to realign grade levels will be beneficial.  Grades K-5 will be housed at Herrick, while Grades 6-12 will be housed in Cowden.

Gordon said the moves approved Thursday could save the District $300,000.   He said there are plans to utilize a Cowden-Herrick Foundation established by retired superintendent Gary Cadwell to solicit contributions from alumni, solely to be used on educational needs.

Gordon said the Board will consider fees for next school year at their meeting in April. 

Also Thursday, the Cowden-Herrick Board hired Marc Bain as district athletic director.  Bain will replace Jackie Mette, who resigned the position last month.  The Board also hired Wendy Cook as high school track coach.