Board OKs three hires, accepts two resignations and begins process to fill board vacancy after Brent's resignation

The Fall River School District board approved a slate of staffing recommendations and acknowledged multiple resignations, and members were also notified of an impending board vacancy.

Administration recommended hiring Bruce Hahn as high school math teacher, Jessica Barr as kindergarten teacher and Lauren Dane as elementary special education teacher. The presenter said Hahn brings 18 years of experience and that the hires will support algebra, geometry and middle-school math intervention; the board approved the staffing slate by voice vote.

The board then accepted resignations from Dawn Hurney (fifth grade) and Doug Pickerts (high school math). Administration noted Pickerts had previously come out of retirement to help the district and expressed interest in continuing in a limited coaching role; the board accepted both resignations.

Separately, a sitting board member, Brent, announced he will resign effective tomorrow because of upcoming schedule conflicts. Brent told colleagues he would submit a resignation letter and explained the decision was driven by inability to attend for the next several months. The chair outlined the vacancy process: the district will post the open seat, accept candidate materials directed to Mr. Burr, interview applicants (target date discussed for early May), and appoint an interim to serve until the next regular election.

Next steps: Administration will publish the vacancy and collect applications; the remaining board will interview candidates and make an appointment in accordance with board policy.