With the Youth Jefferson Awards shelved, Springfield Local Schools has established a new award that recognizes students and their community service.
At the April 27 meeting, the school board unanimously approved the creation of the Ev Harris Community Service Awards.
Named after the longtime board member, the award honors SHS youth “who have shown exceptional leadership, initiative and responsibility in their community.
Recipients will have inspired and motivated others to become involved in their community.”
To be considered for recognition, students must display four qualities–responsibility, leadership, initiative and community involvement.
The new awards are the brainchild of Kristina White, community liaison for the district.
She developed the concept after learning that Leadership Toledo was stepping away from its relationship with the National Jefferson Awards organization.
The National Jefferson Awards recognize individuals nationwide who perform extraordinary public service in the communities they reside.
“Those awards are prestigious, significant and played a very important aspect in our culture for almost 15 years,” Mrs. White said, adding, “While sad, mourning the decision will get us nowhere, and I believe recognizing students for their choices to lead through service to others should continue.”
To the community liaison, the new award is even more significant as it offers a living role model and reflects on Mr. Harris’ 50-year example of selfless service and leadership to the district.
Personnel
The board took action on a number of personnel matters.
They issued classified changes in assignment for Gloria Bishop, from 4 hour Holloway food service personnel with additional cleaning duties to 4 hour SHS food service personnel; John Hritz, from 10 month to 12 month information technology specialist, and Nick Liggett from 12 month head mechanic to 10 month mechanic.
One year contracts were awarded to Christy Avalos, SHS math; Bradley Davis, SMS social studies, and Emily Turner, SMS intervention specialist.
Certified changes in assignment were authorized for Jerry Bell, from curriculum director grades 6-12 to student services and career tech coordinator; Julie Ingham from fifth grade at Dorr to third grade at Holloway, and Amanda Wilson from intervention specialist moderate/intensive to intervention specialist mild/moderate at Holland.
A personal service contract was granted to Teresa Doran, middle school solo and ensemble accompaniment.
In addition, a pupil activity permit was awarded to Chelsea Haas, SHS softball volunteer coach.
The board accepted a resignation from Teresa Krohn, concession coordinator effective June 1 and hired Kathleen Cox as a substitute teacher.
Other Business
In other business, the school board:
Nominated board members Sherri Koback and Rachel Geiger for the Ohio School Boards Association’s Recognition Award.
The board noted that both have dedicated their time for the betterment of students and the community and are “dedicated to the craft of board governance through their commitment to training, service and governance skills.”
•Approved a repair shop service bill to Toledo Spring Service for $3,767, and a purchase from Educational Service Center of Lake Erie West for $4,963.
•Authorized an agreement for Ohio Medicaid school program services with Weswurd, LLC from July 1 through June 30, 2025 at an annual fee of $22,080.
•Approved the purchase of furniture for the Springfield Digital Academy through Martin Public Seating at the Ohio Department of Administrative Services per state terms.
•Issued commendations to Compelled Church and Mrs. White.
Mr. Geha said the church has donated a number of food items to the district for students and classrooms.
“It is just remarkable what they have done,” he said, noting a recent donation filled nearly an entire office.
•Mrs. White was recognized for her more than 20 years of service and the work she has done to “positively impact Springfield Local Schools.”
•Modified a job description for the student services and career tech coordinator.
The next board of education meeting will be at 4:15 p.m., Wednesday, May 11, at the schools administration building, 6900 Hall Street, Holland, and is open to the public.
~Jane Maiolo
