VIENNA — The Maries R-1 Board of Education welcomed to its June 25 meeting two men interested in the vacant seat on the board.

Jake Hallahan and Bradley Massman came to the meeting to observe and introduce themselves to board members and administrators. They were both interested in being appointed to the vacant seat on the board after Kacie James’ resignation in May to accept a teaching position at Vienna Elementary School.

Hallahan introduced himself first. He has been a Vienna resident for more than 15 years. His daughter Karlee was a Vienna High School graduate, and he has two sons enrolled in the district.

“I think that service is an important thing that few people take advantage of and capitalize on that opportunity,” he said when asked why he was interested in the position. “And I have boys who go to the school, so I have a vested interest in being part of this board and to be a part of the direction that the school goes.”

Then, Massman introduced himself. He has also lived in the district for more than 15 years. He has four children enrolled in the district, and his wife Jennifer is a special education teacher.

“The main reason I want to join is because I have a vested interest in making sure my kids and wife are taken care of, and the school is leading them in the direction that would best help all the students meet the future needs that they’re going to have to face,” he said.

“Thank you guys both for coming in and talking with us a little bit about who you are and your interest in the school,” Board President Dave Long said.

The board said they would let the candidates know their pick after the meeting. The board decided to appoint Hallahan to the open seat. He will take the oath during the meeting scheduled for July 20.

During the meeting, the board also hired staff for three positions.

The first new hire was Hannah Bradley as music teacher for kindergarten through 12th grade. Superintendent Teresa Messersmith said Bradley is still working on her certification, but she is on track to have it within a year.

The second hire was Austin Bradley as a paraprofessional. In May, the board hired him as the coach of the middle school boys’ basketball team.

The third hire was Ralph Trusty as a third-grade teacher on a working-after-retirement waiver.

The board also accepted one resignation from fifth-grade teacher, Jennifer Freeman.

“I greatly appreciate the opportunities that the Maries R-1 School District has provided me, as well as professional guidance and support that has allowed me to grow within the role,” Freeman wrote in her resignation letter.