School news in brief

The Lee’s Summit School District looked across the state line to find a new athletic/activities director to replace Darwin Rold, who is retiring in June.

He is Richard Bechard, who has held a similar position in the Blue Valley School District for the last eight years.

At a community event earlier this month in Independence, Comcast recognized five Gold Medal Educators for their work as teachers and/or coaches.

One staff member was chosen from each of the following schools:

• Raytown High School: Marlee Stempleman.

• Raytown South High School: Paula Dampier.

• Truman High School: Angie Zarrillo.

• Van Horn High School: Laura Solomon.

• William Chrisman High School: Kim Hayes.

Each teacher received $500, and principals from each school accepted an educational grant for $2,500.

This story was originally published February 24, 2014 at 9:46 PM with the headline "School news in brief."