Mishawaka board approves personnel appointments, five retirements and updated organizational chart

The School City of Mishawaka Board of School Trustees on March 5 approved a personnel report that included administrative appointments, five retirements and an updated organizational chart.

The administration recommended and the board approved the appointment of Ken Kalenback as director of operations, effective March 6, 2025. The board also approved the appointment of Justin Smith as assistant director of operations with an effective date listed as July 1, 2025; the administration said that date may be revised and that Smith’s actual start is contingent on backfilling his electrician position in the maintenance department.

Superintendent Dr. Steven Stevens and human-resources presenter Miss Luban listed five retirements the board acknowledged: Debbie Anderson (28 years, John Young Middle School art teacher), Diana Betzer (food service roles, last day Feb. 14), Lori Shaliel (22 years as a school counselor), Jill Snyder (33 years as a second-grade teacher, Liberty Elementary), and Karen Wilson (12 years in food service and custodial roles). The administration thanked the retirees for their service.

The board also approved an updated 2025 organizational chart that the administration said is designed to improve efficiency, communication and role clarity; the administration described the change as a net reduction of three administrative positions.

Ken Kalenback and Justin Smith both spoke briefly after the approvals, thanking the board and saying they look forward to a smooth transition. The administration noted that the assistant director’s effective date may be revised when the maintenance department position is filled.