Douglas Unified Lifts Hiring Freeze, Approves Multiple Hires and New Athletic Coordinator

The Douglas Unified School District governing board approved a series of personnel actions after the superintendent said the district has ended its hiring freeze and travel ban.

Superintendent Samaniego announced that the district has lifted the hiring freeze and travel ban and has been "working with our staff on our budget" so that a large number of hires can now proceed. She invited the community to a job fair at the district office where staff will conduct on‑the‑spot interviews for ESS instructional-aide vacancies, substitute teachers, counselors and teacher openings.

Board members then considered motions to approve certified hires and classified hires. During the certified-hire item the superintendent corrected titles for the first four individuals (DPAS program teachers rather than DHS credit-recovery teachers). Mister Lindeman moved to approve the hires with that correction; the motion was seconded and passed by roll call.

The board also approved classified hires and presented one athletics hire: Martin Paco was recommended as a soccer assistant coach at Douglas High School and the board approved the appointment. The board approved extra-duty pay for three teachers providing ESS tutoring hours, and approved several internal classified transfers (site moves with no extra pay). New employees introduced themselves at the podium: Chynita Cruz (athletics coordinator) and Aixa Owen (ESS instructional aide).

All personnel motions were moved, seconded, and carried by roll-call votes recorded as yes by the board. The superintendent and board members emphasized the district's intent to fill vacancies promptly and to monitor staffing and budget impacts as hires proceed.