A long-time coach received a commendation from the Springfield board of education.
At the April 10 meeting, the board recognized Coach Bill Dodson for his contributions to the community and school district as a middle school and high school football and wrestling coach.
“It is with great honor and gratitude that we recognize the exceptional dedication and service of Mr. Dodson,” said Andrew Screptock, athletic director.
He noted that in addition to serving the community as a full-time firefighter, Mr. Dodson coached for more than 33 years.
He first received a contract to coach seventh grade football in 1990-91. Since that time, Mr. Screptock said, “Mr. Dodson has touched the lives of countless students instilling in them the values of discipline, perseverance and teamwork.
“His unwavering commitment to our school and community has left an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege of knowing him.”
The athletic director expressed appreciation to Mr. Dodson’s family, pointing out that their support made it possible for the coach to spend countless hours on the field or on the mats.
As a token of their appreciation, the school board presented Mr. Dodson with a board commendation.
They also selected him to receive this year’s Ohio High Schools Athletic Association state award for sportsmanship, ethics and integrity.
“The award recognizes individuals who continually exemplify good sportsmanship, serve as positive role models, demonstrate high levels of ethics and integrity and contribute to the well-being of youth.
OHSAA member schools are permitted to present this award to one adult on an annual basis, explained Superintendent Matt Geha, adding, “We have chosen to present this award to Mr. Dodson.”
Personnel
The school board approved a number of personnel items.
They accepted resignations from Shannon Berry, Holland intervention specialist, effective June 1; Daniel Dudley, substitute teacher, April 1; Amanda Smith, Holloway kindergarten, April 10, and Lakeeta Young, 3.5 hour SHS food service, March 27. Ms. Young was subsequently issued a one-year contract as a bus driver, 4.75 hours, effective The school board also accepted the retirement resignation of Katherine Augustyniak, 7.5 hour Holloway food service manager, June 3.
A pupil activity contract was awarded to David Evans, SHS boys tennis assistant coach, and Sarah Thorson was hired as a substitute teacher, beginning March 25.
Other Business
In other business, the board of education:
•Approved the school resource officer agreement with the Village of Holland.
The board hopes to have the SRO in place by the end of this month, pending approval by Holland village council.
•Joined the Ohio School-Comp 2025 workers compensation group rating program at an annual cost of $2,950.
•Approved the expenditure of $3,167 to Letterman Ink and Threads for the SHS drama department and $3,718 to Mastercard for the middle school music department.
• Entered into an agreement with Green Options for Autism of Lucas County at a cost of $180 per day.
•Approved two requests to attend professional meetings.
•Entered into executive session to consider the sale or purchase of public property, but took no action afterward.
•Heard an overview of activity at the high school from Robb Brown, SHS principal.
The next school board meeting will be at 4:15 p.m., Wednesday, April 24 at the administration building, 6924 Spring Valley Drive, Holland, and is open to the public.
