Nine hires were approved by the Litchfield School Board during their December meeting last week.

After meeting in closed session, the board approved the hire of Mark Hunt as the middle and high school librarian and high school Dean of Attendance, effective January 4. The motion passed, 6-1, with Meg Wertin voting no.

Larry Blevins was hired as the district's social worker and family engagement coordinator. Christina Ortega was hired as a ten-month clerical aide at the high school, and Melissa Allen was approved as an elementary instructional tutor. All of those hires were approved unanimously.

Five people were hired as substitute bus drivers for the district, pending the completion of all state and federal requirements. They are Jeanne Gebhardt, Karen Savage, Martin Steffens, Kelly Streubel and Donald Weeks.

In addition to the hires, outgoing personnel matters were also addressed.

The board accepted letters of intent to retire from teachers Dan Newkirk and Bill Jones. Newkirk is the middle school health teacher and is set to retire following the 2022-23 school year. Jones is a high school math teacher who will retire following the 2023-24 school year. The board also accepted the resignation of assistant football coach Tyler Rife, effective immediately.

The next Litchfield School Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 17, at 6 p.m.