Pickerington celebrates students and district successes; superintendent highlights Blue Ribbon, athletics and arts

Before routine business, the Pickerington Local Schools Board on March 23 paused to present Pickerington Pride Awards to students from Lakeview and Pickerington Central Junior High.

Ben Baptist, principal of Lakeview Junior High, introduced Shelby Casto, Tessa Gialuca and Bradley Rotts and described their academic growth, leadership and contributions in peer-collaboration settings. Central-area presenters recognized Evan Kurth, Devyani Thapa and Yaya Devi for leadership, compassion and improvement in classwork.

Superintendent Dr. Smialek used the student recognitions to frame a broader update: he told trustees that Sycamore Creek was named a Blue Ribbon School (one of four in Ohio to date for increases in achievement and work to close gaps), and he praised recent athletics (Central boys and girls Final Four appearances) and a well-received Mamma Mia production as examples of the district's strengths. "We have tried to explain in as many different ways that we are a destination district," he said.

The board then moved into its regular business agenda.