Cornell School Board; Off-season doesn’t mean vacation for coaches

By Ginna Young

Just because the high school sports seasons have wrapped up, doesn’t mean coaches aren’t already thinking ahead to the next school year.

The same is especially true for Cornell football coach Craig Braaten, who also acts as the elementary vice principal/co-athletic director.

Braaten gave an update June 28, during the regular Cornell School Board meeting, about plans for the fall season. Braaten says activity in the weight room has been good, from participation of seventh grade athletes to seniors.

“Boys and girls, too, which is kind of nice,” said Braaten. “It’s not all just football guys.”

Braaten also said he took a group of student athletes to the recent Country Fest in Cadott, and stocked shelves, to raise money for the sports programs, with plans for the same at Rock Fest.

He also mentioned that three coaching positions will be open in the district, with the resignation that was accepted that night, of middle/high school teacher Marcus Leland, who leaves to take a position closer to his roots, with the Melrose-Mindoro School District.

Words cannot express how grateful I am, that Cornell took a chance on me nine years ago, wrote Leland. My time in Cornell, has allowed me to accomplish many of my goals, and most importantly, helped me to become a better teacher and person. I will greatly miss my students, fellow teachers and the community.

“He’s been a wonderful part of our school district,” said Braaten. “He’s going to be hard to replace.”

The board also approved the hire of social studies teacher Brett Dekan; agriculture teacher Danielle Mihalski; and band/choir/ general music/grant coordinator Joshua Hopper.