By Kellen Olshefski
Editor
Since the start of August, Big Foot High School has announced the addition of several new members to its teaching staff via its Facebook page, as well as the resignation and retirement of others.
This year, David Olson, from Madison, will begin his teaching career at Big Foot High School as the new vocal music teacher. Olson graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree focusing on choral music education and general music.
Olson, who has recently moved to Walworth, has an extensive background in a variety of musicals and according to the high school’s Facebook post, is looking forward to bringing that experience to Big Foot High School’s musical performances.
Olson will be replacing former vocal music teacher Marie Severing, who retired at the end of last school year.
Zachary Markhardt’s hiring was announced Aug. 17. Markhardt, from Black River Falls, will serve as the high school’s new Agricultural Science Intern, replacing Rick Henningfield who is on a one year sabbatical for the upcoming academic year, according to the post.
Markhardt is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree is Agricultural Education at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, graduating in December, and plans to move to Sharon at the beginning of the school year.
Markhardt’s extensive background includes, but is not limited to, serving as a parliamentary procedure teacher assistant and serving as a Wisconsin State FFA Officer from June 2012 to June 2013.
In the district office, the school district announced via its Facebook page the hiring of Becky Baker, who will serve as the school district’s new business manager.
“Ms. Baker was selected from a well-experienced pool of many applicants,” the post said.
Baker, who holds a bachelors degree in business administration and management and an associate’s degree in accounting, will replace Deb Way, who is retiring at the end of the upcoming year after serving the district for more than 40 years.
According to the post, Baker has already began working with office staff and district administration in an effort to provide a smooth transition into the position over the next year.
On Aug. 12, who has served the district in multiple ways over the past 14 years submitted his resignation, according to a post on the school’s social media page.
Lawton has served as an English teacher, vice principal and dean of students during his tenure at the school.
“In each of these administrative capacities he has served with dedication and excellence,” the post said. “Brian will be missed as a member of the administrative team and as a member of BFHS staff.
