Keystone Oaks honors students heading to state and national competitions and recognizes longtime staff retirees

Board members and administrators spent the opening portion of the meeting recognizing student achievements and honoring retiring staff.

Superintendent Dr. Stropkin and board members read names of students who placed at state-level competitions and qualified for national events. The board singled out students in the Future Business Leaders of America and related categories; the administration noted one student qualified to attend nationals in July in Orlando.

School and community leaders also recognized several longtime employees for their service. Board members praised a Myrtle Elementary secretary (24 years of service), a longtime teacher Christine (about 31 years) and custodian Tom Novak (about 20 years). "She's the face on there," one speaker said of the retiring secretary, describing her as a constant presence in the building and noting her role supporting staff and students.

The board noted facilities work and a kickoff meeting with architects to pursue entrance and safety upgrades at multiple buildings. Members said architects will examine vestibules and possible entrance relocations to improve visitor screening and proximity to administrative offices.

The recognition portion included photo opportunities and audience thanks; the meeting then moved into routine business and votes.