Forest Hills opens new district facility; students and staff honored in instructional highlight

Forest Hills Public Schools officials formally welcomed the public into a new district administrative facility and used the meeting’s instructional highlight to honor support staff who work behind the scenes.

An administrator introduced the building as a long-awaited home for the superintendent’s office, human resources, business services and technology, saying the facility was funded by the district’s 2018 bond. Students Cecilia King, Sarai Burdick and Anya Dubeen then presented short remarks recognizing school employees who “make our day” and asked support staff to stand so the room could applaud them.

The students named several staff members and described specific contributions: a daytime custodian, Jeff Chariton, was praised for greeting students, teaching painting techniques and running an after-school drumming circle funded by a district foundation grant. One student presented Chariton with artwork and several commenters described his work as mentoring and skill-building for students. The board chair said the instructional highlight showcased the many adults who help students succeed beyond classroom instruction.

District leaders said the recognition was intended to underscore a “pack mentality” culture—bringing varied adult talents together so students feel safe and supported. The segment concluded with applause and thanks from board members and administrators.

The board did not take formal action on the instructional recognition; it was presented as an instructional highlight and community-building moment before agenda business continued.