Bader named as new Celina coach

CELINA - Former assistant football coach Brennen Bader will return to the gridiron as Celina High School's head varsity football coach in the coming season.

After emerging from two-hour executive session Monday, school board members unanimously approved a supplemental contract for Bader for the 2017-2018 school year.

Bader, who played football when he attended Celina High School, said he wants to be a role model as coach.

"I want to build a culture that kids gravitate towards and learn life lessons," he said. "Once they're through, I want them to look back and say they're proud."

The board in March accepted former head coach Trent Temple's resignation. Bader, Steve Bader, Brent Baucher and Tyler Foulkes also all resigned as assistant coaches.

Superintendent Dr. Ken Schmiesing said Bader's enthusiasm and preparation for the interview were obvious.

"Hopefully, he will be an asset for the program," he said. "With his enthusiasm, he will do a nice job encouraging students to be active in the community and on the team. We look forward to what he has to offer."

Board members also awarded a high school diploma to Virginia Livingston Miller, 90, who dropped out of high school in 1942 to go to work after her mother passed away. The diploma can be granted according to board policy, which recognizes the efforts of women who left high school during World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War prior to graduation to join the workforce to support their families.

Schmiesing said Miller is "likely the oldest student to have ever received their diploma from Celina City Schools."

Also on Monday, the board approved a price increase for a lunch for the 2017-2018 school year. All breakfasts will increase 25 cents to $1.50. High school lunches will go up 5 cents to $2.80, and the cost for a sandwich, second slice of pizza and main entree will rise 25 cents to $1.50. Chips and snack prices also will increase 10 cents to 60 cents.

High school English language learners shared their favorite aspect of class and offered ideas to make school better. Students recommended a swimming pool, a later start time and more school buses.

Members accepted a $5,000 donation from Mercer County Economic Development for the middle school STEM program and a $1,000 donation from Mike Kanney for a high school scholarship.

In other action, board members,

• accepted the retirement of E. Jane Fosnaugh, primary school teacher assistant, after nine years of service, effective July 1.

• accepted the retirement of Martha Knapke, special education administrative assistant, after 25 years of service, effective July 1.

• accepted the retirement of Kathy Hart, middle school emotionally disturbed students' teacher, after 17 years of service, effective July 1.