RONAN — New school board trustees Jim Blow and Robert Jason Starkel were sworn into duty at Monday night’s board of education meeting.

Current trustees Mark Clary and Chris Lynch were both appointed as board chair and vice chair for the 2009-10 school year, respectively. School district clerk Sharon Simpson was appointed an extension to serve through June 30 and clerk Pamela Harris was appointed to serve through May 10, 2010.

The board approved hiring of summer workers: Judy Kudlock in transportation; Marlena Jensen in inventory; Marsha Wartick and Karen Chaffins in summer feeding; and Rod Harris and Al Onsager for summer painters.

Misty Tanner, chair of the Indian Education Committee, came before the board, recognizing and thanking four school district staff members for attending students’ Tribal awards ceremonies.

In his report, high school principal Tom Stack reminded the board and audience that the junior/senior banquet would be held on May 18 followed by graduation on May 31 at 5 p.m. The middle school advancement ceremony is June 1 at 5 p.m.

In the superintendent’s report, Andy Holmlund said the state was to release an updated budget report Monday but his office had not yet received said report. Holmlund added that there will be funding available through energy efficiency projects with possibilities like additional school insulation, light bulbs, and windows on the list of summer maintenance projects to compete for such funds.

“Right now we know we will be getting our piece and be eligible to compete for more,” Holmlund said.

The board also approved the hiring of new staff for 2009-10, including Rita Tingey as the drama-theatre director — a newly created position. Holmlund explained that the position was split between teaching a drama period at both the middle school and high school as well as organizing an after-school community theater program similar to the Missoula Children’s Theatre.

“She should be a great new addition and the beginning of a whole new era.”