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Ionia board extends superintendent contract, approves hires, handbook updates and student device purchase
Summary
At its July 28 meeting the Ionia Public Schools board unanimously approved an extension of Superintendent Ben Gurk's contract through 2028 and a set of routine items, including four professional hires, handbook updates, and purchase of student electronic devices; all motions passed 7-0.
The Ionia Public Schools Board of Education approved a suite of personnel, policy and procurement actions during its July 28 meeting, including an extension of Superintendent Ben Gurk's contract through 2028.
President Danielle Yokom moved to extend the superintendent's contract; Secretary Marhofer and Trustee Montgomery supported the motion and the board voted 7-0 to approve the extension. The motion language and specific contract terms were not provided in the meeting transcript.
The board also approved recommended hires for professional staff: David Petersen (IMS sixth grade teacher), Becky Lapham (Emerson ECSE teacher), Brittany Eberhart (Bulldog Beginnings lead teacher) and Noelle Podoll (Bulldog Beginnings lead teacher). The hiring motion was moved by President Yokom and carried 7-0.
Technology Director Tim Blackmer presented a proposal to purchase student electronic devices. The board approved the purchase after President Yokom moved and Vice President Baker and Trustee Montgomery supported the motion; the vote was 7-0. The transcript does not specify quantities, vendors, or dollar amounts for the purchase.
Superintendent Ben Gurk presented proposed updates to the district school handbooks. The board approved the handbook updates on a 7-0 vote following a motion by President Yokom.
Annual finance business included adoption of the annual school loan revolving fund resolution (roll call; ayes recorded from all seven board members). All motions recorded in the minutes passed without recorded opposition.
Votes at a glance: all listed motions carried 7-0.
The board closed the meeting shortly after approving these items and set its next meeting for Aug. 18, 2025.
