By Carol Stiffler
Students in grades Kindergarten through 12 at Tahquamenon Area Schools (TAS) will need just one item for their back to school supply list: a backpack.
All other items, whether pencils, folders, glue, or notebooks, etc., have been ordered for each student. At Monday evening’s regular meeting of the TAS Board of Education, Superintendent Shawn Tebo said a state 31a At-Risk grant is covering the costs. The full dollar amount is not yet known.
The board also approved several new hires for the district, including several new employees that are still working toward their relevant teaching certifications. Applications for open positions were scarce, with some positions receiving just one applicant.
Incoming teachers and staff include:
Amber Taylor – Kindergarten. Working toward her teaching certification.
Stephanie Brunell – Kindergarten – 3rd grade Special Education teacher. Working toward her special education certification, with expected completion in May 2027.
Terri Oberle – High school English teacher. Enrolled in Teachers of Tomorrow for certification, but no known timeline.
Marissa Rushford – High school special education teacher. Completing her bachelor’s degree this year; special education certification next year.
Georgi DuFort – Middle School social studies teacher. Certified, with several years’ teaching experience.
Candy Labadie – Special Education Coordinator. Fully certified.
Sarah Taylor – Kitchen staff.
Dan Hardenbrook – JV football coach
Superintendent Tebo also updated the board on work on the “bump-out” window areas of the school building. Once summer school ends in August, a crew has been hired to renovate the protruding window areas to repair and beautify them. That work is expected to be completed before the school year begins.
