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HANOVERTON -- The United Local School District has hired a new buildings and grounds supervisor.
Earlier this month the board approved the hiring of Michael Varley on a three-year contract, effective Oct. 2, to replace Thomas Clemens who is retiring.
The board also approved Clemens' retirement during the meeting.
District Superintendent Lance Hostetler said that Varley was highly recommended.
According to minutes of the board meeting, Board member BethAnn Rinto also said that Varley has experience in different areas of the job, including HVAC.
Clemens' retirement took effect on Oct. 16 and Rinto said the board and district appreciate everything he has done over the years.
Clemens informed the board in August that he was considering retirement. At that time he also gave several suggestions for the position moving forward.
In other matters, during the Oct. 2 board meeting, board member Dr. Heather Mercer asked about the nature trails and whether it would be available to all students.
According to minutes of that meeting, Hostetler said the work is underway to complete additional improvements in the area.
Dr. Mercer explained that the district will serve as a collection site for Mount Union and Dr. Mercer's laboratory class, providing a research opportunity for Ann Cooper's biology classes.
On a matter related to the trail, the board during the Oct. 14 regular meeting approved the supplemental job description for the Land Lab Coordinator.
According to the description, the Land Lab Coordinator will monitor and inspect trail conditions and identify safety hazards such as fallen branches, erosion, or invasive lands; monitor and inspect outdoor education areas, including the Memorial Meadow; coordinate routine maintenance activities, including vegetation management, litter removal, and habitat preservation, as well as assist teachers in using the nature trail as an outdoor classroom in addition to working with school administration to plan trail enhancements and conservation projects to protect and improve the natural habitats on school grounds.
The position includes other responsibilities as well and the is subject to oversight by the district superintendent.