Taking time to recruit the best teacher available

Oconee’s public school year is not yet half over, but it’s not too early to begin to size up the roster of faculty available for the next year.  Earnestine Williams, personnel director, announced today letters have already been sent to this year’s teachers for the purpose of whether they wish to be considered for re-employment for the 2016-17 year.  In recent years, Oconee public schools averaged just short of 100 new teachers—due to new positions, resignations, and retirements.  Among those who is calling it a career after this year is 40-year school district employee Joe Rukat, the district’s information and technology expert.  Superintendent Michael Thorsland will be among those who will miss Rukat.  Thorsland called Rukat “a throwback guy”—referring to Rukat’s determination to correct any computer-related p[roblem that comes up. Williams also announced a schedule for her office to attend eight separate recruitment fairs where there’s stiff competition to fill available positions.