March 19 marked the Northeast Region’s Spring Conference in Region conference support strong despite challenging weather Briefcase Volume 39, Issue 8 6 Ravenna. The Maplewood Career Center was the setting for this meeting of school board members and administrators from districts throughout the region’s 19 counties. Region President Andrew Herchek, Waterloo Local (Portage) and Maplewood Career Center, presided over the conference.

Members enjoyed appetizers prepared by the career center’s culinary arts students and a wonderful buffet dinner. The Waterloo High School Viking Choir, under the direction of John Roebke, entertained guests after dinner.

President Bischoff brought greetings and addressed the more than 200 attendees. Executive Director Lewis also greeted attendees and provided an association update. OSBA Legislative Specialist Michelle Francis presented an update on current legislation and explained how important OSBA’s Kids PAC is to the association’s advocacy efforts.

Herchek and Bischoff were assisted by Lewis and Rob Delane with the awards presentations. Delane is OSBA’s deputy executive director and director of school board development.

There were 40 Award of Achievement recipients and five Master Board Member honorees. Named as OSBA Master Board Members were: Rosemary C. Gulick, Parma City; Kit Krause, Brooklyn City; Terri Neff, Brecksville-Broadview Heights City and Cuyahoga Valley Career Center; Julie A. Schafer, Copley- Fairlawn City; and Douglas G. Stuart, Rittman EV.

The region also honored 17 veteran board members with 20 years of service, 13 for 15 years and 67 for 10 years. In addition, 13 Teacher of the Year nominees were recognized.

A new recognition was added to this year’s conference: the State Superintendent’s Schools of Distinction. The Northeast Region led the state with 42 schools earning this honor.

Regions OSBA

© Ohio School Boards Association, 2008