Category Archives: Jobs

Government, Jobs, Kansas

State Agency Jobs at March 19 Virtual Job Fair

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KANSASWORKS Highlights Available State Agency Jobs at March Job Fair

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual State Agency Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 19.

“Our state agencies have provided thousands of Kansans with fulfilling careers in public service,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “For those who are beginning the search for a professional career or those looking for a change of scenery — I encourage you to consider a purpose-driven role at one of our many departments and see what the State of Kansas has to offer.”

There are nearly 500 open agency positions located all across the state that range from entry to senior level careers. The virtual job fair format allows anyone searching for a state position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating agencies.

This month’s Virtual State Agency Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating agencies, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About the KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

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Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Health Care, Jobs

Job Fair Set for Freeman Fort Scott Hospital: 60-Plus Position Openings for New Hospital

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FORT SCOTT, Kan. – In preparation for the much-anticipated opening of Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc., a job fair will be held in early February.

Scheduled from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, the fair will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at the future hospital’s location, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd.

It’s an opportunity for Freeman to recruit and for individuals to explore what job opportunities are available. There are currently 60-plus openings for the new Freeman hospital. These positions include:

  • RN – Acute Care
  • RN – Emergency Department
  • Social Worker
  • Respiratory Therapist
  • Nurse Tech – Acute Care
  • Nurse Tech – Emergency Department
  • Network Engineer
  • Desktop Support Specialist
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Courier
  • Supply Chain Technician
  • Admissions Representative Specialist
  • Monitor Tech
  • Medical Technologist
  • Medical Laboratory Technician
  • Laboratory Medical Assistant
  • X-Ray/C-T Technologist
  • Vascular Sonographer
  • Pharmacist in Charge
  • Pharmacy Tech

Hiring managers will be available during the job fair and will have additional information about various openings.

Freeman Health System, the region’s largest provider of healthcare services, is in the process of seeking licensure to open and operate a 10-bed hospital and 24-hour emergency department with licensed physicians and trained nursing staff. Support for the emergency department includes laboratory, radiology, computerized tomography and an inpatient pharmacy. Opportunities to have outpatient lab, radiology and CT services will also be available to the community from the hospital.

 

Mercy Hosptial Building is now owned by Kansas Renewal Institute. Freeman Fort Scott Hospital will soon be housed in the facility.

 

The emergency room operations has been assumed by Freeman Health Systems.

 

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About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2024, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers and their experiences. U.S. News & World Report named Freeman Health System one of the Best Hospitals for 2022. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopaedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.

 

Bourbon County, Government, Jobs

Danae Esslinger Hired As The New Uniontown City Clerk

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Uniontown City Hall. 2023

 

Danea Esslinger is the new Uniontown City Clerk, as of December 5.

Esslinger has been on the Uniontown City Council for 13 years and lived in Uniontown for 29 years.  Both of her children, Breanna and Brenton, graduated from Uniontown High School. She is the daughter of David DeWayne and Deana Fuhrman of Bronson.

 

Danae Esslinger. Submitted photo.

 

She graduated from Garnett High School and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, with an emphasis in management from Pittsburg State University.

Recently, the council has had difficulty finding a new clerk to replace Sally Johnson who wants to retire from that position.

That’s when Esslinger decided to apply for the job.

At last month’s Uniontown City Council Special meeting, she resigned from her council position and applied for the job.

“I am wanting to do some things that make the city even better,” Esslinger said.

Duties of the Clerk

From a prior interview with Sally Johnson, retiring city clerk, she told of the duties of the Uniontown City Clerk.

“The Clerk position entails performing all duties as defined by Kansas State Statute and City Ordinances:  receive and disperse monetary funds and maintain financial records; complete various administrative reports; grant applications & administration; prepare, mail and apply payments of monthly customer utility billing; assist residents via phone or walk-in; attend and record minutes of all city council meetings, write monthly community newsletter; maintain city website; other duties as required.”

New Treasurer

Sally Johnson is retiring as Uniontown’s City Clerk.

Sally Johnson is the new treasurer of the council, following the resignation of Charlene Bolinger, which was effective Nov. 13.

This part-time job is to “do bank reconciliation and make sure the clerk is getting things done correctly,” Johnson said.

 

Fort Scott, Jobs

Youth Services Supervisor at Fort Scott’s Library: Mackenzie Kaemmer

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Mackenzie Kaemmer. Submitted photo.

Mackenzie Kaemmer, 26, is the new Youth Services Supervisor at Fort Scott Public Library.

“The beginning of my journey here at the Fort Scott Public Library has now begun, I could not be more grateful for this opportunity,” she said. “A big part of my position will be planning, scheduling, and coordinating regular and special programs for preschool, elementary children, and teens. There are many exciting programs underway; once active, such programs and services will be posted on the library website, and Facebook page, and displayed in the library. We are currently taking part in a program, Grow your Heart with Reading, in which everybody can try to win a festive Grinch tree or a giant snuggly Grinch by reading a book or donating items to our local pantry. Every contribution will get your name into the drawing on December 20th!”

Kaemmer with the Grinch Tree at the Fort Scott Public Library. Submitted photo.

 

Her job responsibilities are to acquire new materials and remove or discard unneeded items for youth, catalog library materials, plan regular and special programs for preschool, elementary
children and teens, participate in the statewide summer reading program for youth, outreach to area schools, preschools, and daycare facilities,  develop book displays and other art forms in the children’s area, create publicity flyers for youth programs, assist patrons,  instruct youth and parents on how to use the internet at the library, assist with the library’s website and social media, spearhead new library technology, maintain program statistics and submit monthly reports to the director.

Kaemmer attended Pittsburg State University and received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Developmental Disabilities.

“Prior to university, I spent a summer as an instructional assistant at Kansas State School for the Blind (KSSB),” she said. “During my time at Pittsburg State University, I was the head graduate assistant for the University Testing Center. Under this, I was also given the opportunity to instruct a college-level General Psychology course.”

 

She hails from Overland Park, Kansas, and attributes her family—parents Bobby and Suzanne Kaemmer and siblings Kassidi, Cody, and Cooper—with helping her along life’s way.

 

“Before attending college, I knew I wanted a profession in which the directive was to provide aid for the community; I knew I wanted to help others. Growing up I underwent around ten surgeries, while there were plenty of hardships there was also time to reflect. I wanted to apply my experiences and what they have taught me towards spreading such lessons to others in hopes of enabling a better experience and strengthening an optimistic outlook on the past, present, and future.”

 

About The Library

The Fort Scott Public Library is open Monday through Friday 9:00 am-6:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am-2:00 pm; holidays may differ.

“On November 27th we close at 12:00 pm, and we are closed on November 28th, 29th and 30th. We will reopen as normal on Monday, December 2nd at 9:00 am,” she said.

Fort Scott Public Library, 201 S. National Avenue.

 

Fort Scott National Historic Site, Government, Jobs

New FSNHS Park Guide: Natalie Peitsmeyer

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Natalie Peitsmeyer. Submitted photo.
Natalie Peitsmeyer is a new Park Guide at Fort Scott National Historic Site. She began employment in this month.
She is a 30-year retired science teacher.
“During that time, I taught life and physical science classes (grades 8-12).  Prior to teaching, I was a lifeguard, swim instructor, and summer day camp counselor,” she said.
She attended the University of Colorado at Denver and completed a bachelor’s degree in biology, a Master’s in Secondary Science Education, and a Doctorate in Leadership for Equity in Education.
With the new Park Ranger title, comes a variety of duties.
“I open the buildings and exhibits for visitor access. In the visitor center, I provide information about navigating around the National Park site, as well as history significant to the National Park site.”
“I have always loved National Parks,” she said. ” I grew up in an Air Force family and was fortunate to have lived in a variety of places such as Florida, Okinawa and Colorado. I love the outdoors and appreciate uncovering history. The history of Fort Scott National Historic Site is unique to no other National Park. I look forward to sharing its stories, researching its history, visiting with visitors, developing lessons and tours.”
Filling Vacant Positions Has Been Ongoing
Carl Brenner.
“We had an advertisement to fill our two vacant Park Ranger positions that closed last Friday,” said Carl Brenner. Program Manager for Interpretation and Resource Management
Fort Scott National Historic Site (www.nps.gov/fosc)
“We are hoping to have them onboarded before Rob (Holmes          New FSNHS Ranger: Robert Holmes) leaves in January. Our goal with Natalie and Rob here is that we will be able to have the buildings open seven days a week once she is trained in the next week or so.”
Fort Scott National Historic Site, Jobs

New FSNHS Ranger: Robert Holmes

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Robert Holmes, a Fort Scott National Historic Site Ranger. Submitted photo.
Robert Holmes is a new Park Ranger at Fort Scott National Historic Site.
“We had an advertisement to fill our two vacant Park Ranger positions that closed last Friday,” said Carl Brenner Program Manager for Interpretation and Resource Management for
Fort Scott National Historic Site (www.nps.gov/fosc).”We are hoping to have them onboarded before Rob leaves in January.”
Holmes is here on a temporary assignment.
“While I am here, I will be a supervisory ranger working to hire and train new staff members for the park as well as all being part of all of the daily operations, educational programs, and special events.”
“Since I am here for a detail  (temporary assignment) and not as a permanent staff member, I arrived on the 23rd of September and will be here until sometime around the middle of January,” he said.
“I have worked with the National Park Service for almost nine years; at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, Minuteman National Historical Park, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, the National Mall and Memorial Parks, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, and Kings Mountain National Military Park.
He earned his education from Lycoming College, with a Bachelor of Arts,  and from Villanova University,  with a Master of Arts Degree.
Holmes is doing this temporary assignment to gain experience and travel to the Midwest.
“I applied for the detail at Fort Scott NHS because I have not done a lot of this sort of work in the past, so I wanted to get the experience. I also like forts and had never been to this part of the country before,” he said.
Fort Scott National Historic Site

Ongoing Construction Projects

The park has had several construction projects this year.

Carl Brenner.

“Our roofing project is complete, though they have a couple more gutters to install,” Brenner said. Our fire suppression system replacement is almost complete and far ahead of schedule. They began in February and were expected to work for a year and a half. Nine months later they are working on the final building.”

“After the remaining elements of touch-up, a lot of cleaning, and bringing the museum objects back to the park and resetting the displays, the final buildings should reopen.”

“We are hoping that the West Infantry Barracks and theatre will reopen by early November and Officer’s Quarters #1 will be reopened in early 2025. These are estimates. The Dragoon Barracks rehabilitation has just begun. This rehabilitation is due to a water line break that released approximately 1,500 gallons of water into the building. Currently, we do not have an estimate for the completion of the work, fabrication and installation of the new exhibits, and reopening of the remaining portions of the building.”

 

Government, Jobs, Kansas

Virtual Statewide Job Fair Highlights Booming Opportunities for Jobseekers

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for talent to take part in the final Virtual Statewide Job Fair of the year, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 25.

“The reliable and resourceful Kansas workforce is attracting a record number of companies to our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “And having so many new jobs is creating opportunities for Kansas jobseekers looking to take the next jump in their professional careers.”

The Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Jobs, Kansas

August Virtual Job Fair Offers Kansas Jobseekers Hundreds of Opportunities

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland is encouraging both jobseekers and employers searching for new talent to participate in the August Virtual Statewide Job Fair. Hosted by KANSASWORKS, the job fair will be from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21.

“Over the last five years, Kansas has been very strategic and purposeful when it comes to growing our economy. We are one of the top states for economic development and we’re bringing more jobs to our state than ever before,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “There is no better time than right now to explore the many career opportunities spread out across the state.”

The Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseekers training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professional, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in the virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Fort Scott Community College, Jobs

New FSCC Athletic Director: Liza Erwin

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Liza Erwin. Photo by Kenny Felt.

Liza Erwin, 29, is the new Fort Scott Community College Athletic Director,  with an office in the Arnold Arena building.

She began duties on May 23.

Erwin earned a Master of Education Sports Management from the University of Arkansas,  and a  Bachelor of Science Recreation Administration and Leadership Studies from Pittsburg State University.

She is entering year 12 in intercollegiate athletics, with varied experiences.

“I most recently won a National Championship and Big Ten Championship at Northwestern University. Before Northwestern I worked at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in Championship Operations, Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) a Division II Conference Office in Kansas City, The University of Arkansas in the Office of Student-Athlete Success, and at Pittsburg State University.”

Her professional accomplishments:

– Winning the 2023 DI Women’s Lacrosse National Championship with Northwestern University Lacrosse.

– Winning the 2023 Big Ten Women’s Lacrosse Tournament

– Winning the 2023 Big Ten Women’s Lacrosse Regular Season

– 2023 IWLCA Coaching Staff of the Year

– 2022 DI Women’s Lacrosse National Semifinalist

– Executed First NCAA Championship to Return post Covid-19 Pandemic Shutdown

– Executed first Neutral Site MIAA Volleyball Tournament

-Secured First Corporate Sponsorship for MIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament

– Chair of the Student-Athlete Experience Committee at the University of Arkansas

The duties of the current FSCC Athletic Director position are to lead the department she said.

About the college:

FSCC offers more than 35 fields of study, ensuring every student finds their passion. Earn credits to transfer to a four-year institution or pursue an associate degree or certificate, according to the college website.

FSCC Main Campus

2108 South Horton
Fort Scott, KS
620-223-2700

FSCC John Deere Technology

2301 S. Horton St.
Fort Scott, KS
620-223-2700

FSCC Miami County Location

501 S. Hospital Dr.
Paola, KS
913-294-4178

Miami County Campus

FSCC Pittsburg Cosmetology

813 N. Broadway St.
Pittsburg, KS
620-231-3690

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Technician Training Center

274 N. Industrial Dr.
Frontenac, KS
620-231-3819

FSCC Nursing Department

810 S. Burke St.
Fort Scott, KS
620-768-2908

Career and Technical Education Center of Crawford County (CTEC)

1301 E. 27th Terr.
Pittsburg, KS
620-232-5644

Crawford County Campus

Southeastern Technical Academy for Rural Students (STARS)

1701 Laurel St.
Pleasanton, KS 66075
913-352-8534

STARS Campus

Student Orientation is August 18, with classes starting on August 19.

To view current professional job openings: https://fortscott.edu/jobs/

Members of the FSCC Executive Team include:

Sara Sutton, Interim President

Missy Scott, Vice President of Finance and Operations

Sonia Gugnani, Vice President of Academic Affairs

Juley McDaniel, Director of Human Resources

Vanessa Poyner,  Dean of Students

Liza Erwin, Athletic Director

 

Fort Scott, Jobs

New FSCC Dean of Students: Vanessa Poyner

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Vanessa Poyner. Submitted photo.

Vanessa Poyner, 46, is the new  Fort Scott Community College Dean of Students as of June 11. Her office is located in the Student Services office of Bailey Hall.

Poyner earned her Associate of Science from Fort Scott Community College, then a  Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Missouri Southern State University and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of Cincinnati.

“With 18 years of experience as the Criminal Justice Instructor at Fort Scott Community College, I have always been very student-centered and driven to assist students both in and out of the classroom in achieving their life goals,” she said.

“As the Dean of Students at Fort Scott Community College, I oversee the Student Services departments, which include admissions, the registrar, advising, TRIO, student housing, and student activities,” she said.” In addition to these responsibilities, I serve as the TITLE IX Coordinator on campus, ensuring compliance and addressing issues related to Title IX. I am also dedicated to playing a vital role as the student advocate, supporting and championing the needs and interests of our students.”

 

Health Care, Jobs

Nurse Practitioner Residency applications open

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PITTSBURG — Applications for the PSU Nurse Practitioner Residency Program are open. The program is a partnership between Pittsburg State University and the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, providing a guided transition into a practitioner role.

To apply for the 2024-2025 nurse practitioner residency, visit CHC/SEK’s careers page at https://chcsek.org/careers/.

During the residency, participants will receive a full salary and benefits while receiving shoulder-to-shoulder training from CHC/SEK’s nurse practitioners and physician preceptors. Qualifications include a Kansas APRN license, Family Nurse Practitioner National Certification from AANP or ANCC, and a primary care NP Graduate from an accredited nursing program.

The 12-month rural NP Residency will begin September 9, 2024. The residents will expand their clinical knowledge and skills to become proficient in primary care services as they develop their own rural patient panel and transition to NP practice.

Opportunities for didactic and clinical experiences in primary care and specialty rotations will be available. Residents will have the required components and the ability to customize their residency.

Upon completion, residents will receive recognition from the PSU Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing and receive a certificate.

To learn more about the residency and qualifications, visit PSU’s Rural Nurse Practitioner Residency webpage: https://www.pittstate.edu/nursing/nurse-practitioner-residency.html

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Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) is a mission-focused, patient-owned, federally qualified health center (FQHC), Kansas not-for-profit corporation, and a recognized 501(c)(3) public charity. CHC/SEK provides quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare for everyone, regardless of income or insurance status. CHC/SEK has 39 registered sites in Kansas and Oklahoma, providing approximately 60 services, including walk-in care, primary care, women’s health, mammography and prenatal care, pediatrics, school-based health services, vaccinations, dental care, behavioral health and addiction treatment, and chronic disease management. To learn more, visit www.chcsek.org.

 

 

 

 

Fort Scott, Jobs, Schools

New Administrators at USD 234, Fort Scott School District: Mayfield and Garzone

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Terry Mayfield. Submitted photo.

Terry Mayfield, 51, is the new Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations, who will start duties on July 1. His office will be in the USD 234 District Central Office.

Mayfield earned a Bachelor of Science in Education – Social Studies from Missouri Southern State College 1996, a Masters in Education – Secondary School Administration from University of Central Missouri 2004, and an Education Specialist – Superintendency from University of Central Missouri 2008.

“I spent nine years as a social studies teacher and coach and 19 years in school administration – four years as a building principal and 15 years as superintendent – the last eight years I have spent as the superintendent of the Drexel R-IV School District in Drexel, MO.,” he said.

His duties include:

  • Oversee all business operations in the district.
  • Collaborate with the superintendent to prepare, manage and oversee the district budget.
  • Provide financial data to the superintendent and board of education.
  • Prepare and analyze bid documents.
  • Oversee health insurance and other employee benefits.
  • Manage district investments of funds.
  • Manage bond and lease purchase payments.
  • Oversee grant funds and reporting.
  • Oversee operations departments; food service, transportation, maintenance and technology.

What is the best part of being in education for you?

The best part about being in education is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students and staff and to witness their personal and professional growth. Watching students develop confidence, skills, and a passion for learning is incredibly rewarding. Similarly, supporting colleagues as they advance in their careers and achieve their goals creates a collaborative and dynamic work environment. These connections and the positive impact on others’ lives make education a uniquely fulfilling field, fostering a sense of community and continuous development for everyone involved. Seeing the long-term successes of former students and colleagues further highlights the profound and lasting influence educators have on shaping futures.

What are some challenges?

Challenges in education today include providing all students with the skills they need for future success and supporting teachers and staff in a demanding profession. The day-to-day pressures of teaching, meeting diverse student needs, and staying current with educational practices can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to recognize and address these challenges to foster a supportive environment for both students and educators.

Contact info:

District Central Office Phone: 620-223-0800, 620-223-2760

Email Address: terry.mayfield@usd234.org

Chris Garzone. Submitted photo.
Chris Garzone, 54, is the new principal at Winfield Scott Elementary School in Fort Scott as of August 1. He was hired as the assistant principal last year.

Garzone earned a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership from Pittsburg State University and next year will be his 30th year in education. For twenty of those years, he was an administrator.

Garzone’s duties: ” Besides the day-to-day responsibilities of being a principal, I am responsible for the educational experience of all the students at Winfield Scott Elementary School. I provide support and guidance for all staff and promote a positive culture within the building.”
“The best part of being in education is experiencing growth in student behavior and learning. A challenge would be not having enough time throughout the day to address the needs of all staff and students. Winfield Scott has an amazing staff that cares about their students. I look forward to continuing as an administrator at this school,” he said.

Contact info: chris.garzone@usd234.org 620-223-0450