Southern Ohio ESC celebrates School Board Recognition Month; honors Governing Board leadership
Pictured (front, l-r) are Ruth Ann Ruth; Roger West, president; Linda Stepp, vice president; and Dr. Norma Kirby; (back) Richard Peck, Dennis Mount, Rod Lane, Todd Hixson and Martha Gausman.
In recognition of School Board Recognition Month, the Southern Ohio Educational Service Center (SOESC) is proud to celebrate the dedicated public service of its nine-member Governing Board.
Throughout the year, SOESC Governing Board members provide leadership and oversight that helps ensure high-quality services and support for students, educators, families, and school communities across the region.
“Public education is strengthened when community leaders step forward to serve," said Curt Bradshaw,
SOESC superintendent. “Our Governing Board members give their time, insight, and steady leadership to help guide our work, so we can continue delivering innovative solutions that support student success and strong school districts. We are deeply grateful for their commitment."
The SOESC Governing Board plays a vital role in setting direction, approving budgets, ensuring accountability and supporting the SOESC’s mission to partner with local districts and community agencies. Their work helps SOESC remain responsive to regional needs and focused on continuous improvement.
Governing Board members, who are elected to represent their local communities and school districts, establish policies and help ensure the educational service center remains a trusted partner for schools and other partners. The SOESC Governing Board is responsible for an annual budget of $16.7 million and 112 employees, serving over 16,000 students in school districts in Clinton, Highland, and Fayette Counties, in addition to other services provided in Adams and Brown Counties through the Region 14 State Support Team and the Hopewell Special Education Cooperative.
“School board members give our community a voice in education decision-making," Bradshaw said.“While January is a special time to recognize their contribution, their commitment lasts all year. The SOESC invites community members, staff, and partner districts to join in expressing appreciation for the Governing Board’s leadership and dedication.
Governing Board members serving the SOESC are: Martha Gausman, 12 years of board service; Todd Hixson, four years of board service; Dr. Norma Kirby, four years of board service; Rod Lane, 16 years of board service; Dennis Mount, 28 years of board service; Richard Peck, 26 years of board service; Ruth
Ann Ruth, four years of board service; Linda Stepp, two years of board service; and Roger West, 28 years of board service.
The SOESC partners with school districts and communities to provide high-quality educational services and support. SOESC is committed to leading with innovative solutions for student and community success through strong partnerships, responsible stewardship, and a focus on what students and educators need most.
For more information about the Southern Ohio ESC and its programs and services, visit www.soesc.org.
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