Board approves new middle school social studies teacher and Costa Rica field trip

The board voted to employ Patrick Hasson as the district's middle school social studies teacher. The superintendent recommended Hasson, noting he completed his student teaching in May and highlighting his ability to connect with students: "He establishes strong rapport with students by treating them with respect and holding them to high expectations in a supportive and affirming manner."

Separately, teacher Tiff Shaw presented an out-of-state, overnight 9-day educational trip to Costa Rica for high-school English/media arts students during February 2027 school vacation. Shaw described an itinerary that includes Tortuguero National Park, ziplining in the rainforest canopy, white-water rafting on the Sarapakwe River, Arenal region activities and snorkeling in Guanacaste. Shaw quoted preliminary costs: "The quote for us right now would be, 4,100 for students and 5,000 for adults." She said chaperone spots are earned (one free chaperone for each six paying students) and that fundraising will be used to reduce student costs; the board voted to approve the trip.