School Board nominates Mikayla Hand for teaching position amid recruitment challenges

The East Kingston School Board meeting on April 14, 2025, highlighted significant updates on staffing and policy changes, with a focus on community engagement and the ongoing teacher shortage.

One of the key discussions revolved around the hiring of Mikayla Hand, a long-term substitute teacher from Exeter, who was nominated to join the third and fourth-grade team. The hiring committee, which included students, unanimously supported her candidacy, emphasizing the importance of student input in the selection process. Principal French praised the thoroughness of the interviews, noting that the involvement of students provided valuable insights into the candidates.

Despite the excitement surrounding Hand's appointment, the board acknowledged the broader challenge of a national teacher shortage. With only 27 applicants for the position, a significant drop from previous years, the board is keenly aware of the difficulties in attracting qualified educators. The discussion underscored the need for ongoing efforts to enhance recruitment strategies in the face of dwindling candidate pools.

In addition to staffing updates, the board addressed the need for a new school sign, as the current one is beyond repair. Plans for a more maintainable sign were discussed, with quotes expected at the next meeting. The board also approved the school calendar for the upcoming year, ensuring that parents and staff are aligned on important dates.

Policy updates were another focal point, with several new and revised policies presented for approval. These included updates on board conflict of interest, electronic communication, and the administration of federal grants. The board emphasized the importance of these policies in facilitating donations and managing resources effectively.

Overall, the meeting reflected a proactive approach to addressing staffing challenges and enhancing school operations, with a clear commitment to community involvement and transparency in decision-making. The board's next steps will include further discussions on the new sign and continued efforts to attract quality teaching candidates.