School Board Approves Staff Changes

The Cheyenne County School District No. 1 school board approved several resignations and staff contracts during the April 12 meeting.

The board approved five resignations and eight teaching contracts. Technology teacher Steve Raymond will retire at the end of the school year, completing more than 20 years in Sidney.

“I have enjoyed my 22 years of teaching in this district and have spent some time in every building except Middle School,” Raymond said in his resignation letter. “I have probably had over 3,000 students in that time and it is amazing to think of having a part in that many students' lives. I will miss the students and staff, but I am looking forward to new experiences.”

He said he has no definite plans, but expects to spend playing disc golf, working his yard and making trips to Maine to visit their son.

Eamonn Feeney submitted his resignation to accept a position with Maxwell Public Schools. Feeney said Maxwell is his alma mater, and will provide him the opportunity to fulfill one of his dreams, to be a head football coach.

“I am thankful for the privilege of being able to be part of the staff at Sidney Public Schools. It is truly a great school system with great students and phenomenal staff members. I will cherish the time that I was able to spend here and will always hold this place near and dear to my heart,” he said in his resignation letter.

Football coach and Physical Education/Weight teacher Chris Koozer's resignation was also accepted Monday, April 12. His resignation closes six years of teaching and coaching in Sidney Public Schools.

Amy Koozer also submitted her resignation as high school social studies and math teacher. She also commended the district for the opportunities during her six years with the district.

Zach Barrett submitted his resignation as social studies teacher.

“When I came to Sidney six years ago for an interview, I had no idea what to expect. I had never been to Sidney, and knew no one. Mr. Ehler and the rest of the administrative team took a chance on a young aspiring educator and for that, I will be forever grateful,” Barrett said in his resignation letter.

He has accepted the position of Activities Director/Assistant Principal at Twin River Public Schools in Genoa, Neb.

“I cannot thank everyone here in the district enough for the opportunities that were provided to me during my time here. The way that the Sidney community welcomed Amanda and I, and made us feel at home is something I will never forget,” he said in his resignation letter.

The board then approved contracts for Lori Jensen, Juliah Fort, Alexandra Cape, Samantha Fennell, Todd Ekart, Scot Anderson, Lisa Walter and Jacob Muir.

In other business, the board recognized the Sidney High School Danz Team for winning the state competition; and Winter Academic All State award winners Julian Maytorena (wrestling), Jersie Misegadis and Reagan Biesecker (Girls Basketball), Wyatt Heckenlively and Jaeden Dillehay (Boys Basketball) and Adarsha Ganesan and Krishnaraj Ganesan (Speech).

The board also reviewed the District's bills payable and financial reports. Policy 4040 Employment Terms of Classified Staff was also approved. The approved April 12 reflects changes in the policy.

The board also approved Lori Borchert at the school board treasurer.