September

Racine, Ohio: Southern Local Board of Education recognized students and staff at tonight's Southern Local Board of Education meeting. Southern Local would like to thank Home National Bank for sponsoring our student recognition.  Home National Bank was represented by their Vice President, Christy Greenlee. Southern Local Board of Education represented by President, Brenda Johnson.

Southern Elementary STORM Students

Ruth Smith - 2nd Grade

Ruth is a very kind and caring student in Ms. Zielinski' s 2nd grade class. Ruth follows the school expectations completely. She is always willing to help whenever help is needed. Ruth will go above and beyond to help others, whether it be a teacher or a peer. If you are looking for a student to be a role model, when you are looking for a leader who will exemplify school expectations, look for Ruth. She is a true S.T.O.R.M. student. (Nominated by Wendy Beegle)

Chloe Sacko - 6th Grade

Chloe is new to our district, but seems as if she has been part of our school for a long time. She has made fast friends with many of her classmates, and became an immediate role model for some younger students. Chloe goes above and beyond her role as a student by helping her teachers and classmates when needed. Chloe is kind, respectful, and makes a positive difference in the days of many of her peers. We are incredibly lucky to have Chloe as part of our district. (Nominated by Katie Ash)

Southern Jr./Sr. High School Students of the Month

Nevaeh Camp - 9th Grade

Nevaeh is a perfect example of the Tornado Code. She is kind and helpful to others without being prompted. She is a leader in expectations and always prepared for class. Only knowing Neveah for a short amount of time has already proven that she knows what it means to be a good student and friend to all. Without a doubt Nevaeh is a wonderful example of what a Tornado should be! (Nominated by Amanda Rinaldi)

Amanti Hayes - 12th Grade

It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Amanti Hayes for Student of the Month. Amanti consistently demonstrates intelligence, a strong work ethic, and respect for her peers and teachers. She is always prompt in completing her assignments with precision and thoughtfulness, setting a high standard for her classmates to follow. Amanti' s commitment extends beyond the classroom. She actively participates in extracurricular activities, showcasing her well-rounded character and dedication. Her presence is felt in everything she does, and she continually exemplifies what it means to be a model student. (Nominated by Bill Whitlock)

Southern Staff Member of the Month

Brandon Marcinko - Special Education Paraprofessional

Brandon is the true definition of a team player. He will look to see the need in the building and is willing to be part of the solution. He is the most dependable source of help when it comes to working with students, administration, and other staff. He loves the children he is working with and has much compassion for them. Brandon volunteers his time at the end of the day to make sure all the needs of the students are met, even in a different classroom than where he is throughout the day because he truly cares about the success of our students and school. Brandon has proven to be a tremendous asset to our elementary team, and we are so lucky to have him here. (Nominated by Wendy Beegle)

Teacher of the Month

Chad Dodson - Band Director & a man of many hats

Chad Dodson is a hard worker and a great role model for the band students. The students connect well with Chad, and see him as a positive role model in their lives. He is always willing to help with events and is very technologically savvy. He’s a great asset to our school. (Nominated by Beth Lanning)

Chad has served as a mentor and friend for several years. He always knows the right advice to give and is always willing to lend a helping hand. He makes coming to work fun. I appreciate his cheerful personality towards the staff and his students. He is a dedicated staff member that most of time goes unrecognized by all the behind the scenes jobs he does for our school and students. He spends countless unpaid hours after school to make his program and our school better. Chad definitely deserves this award. (Nominated by Jenna Meeks)

Mr. Dodson is one of THE most valuable employees at Southern Local. He goes above and beyond to help colleagues and students. His dedication to the music program is clearly visible with the long hours he puts into his work. As most teachers do, Dodson spends much of his free time working beyond the 7 hour day. He can be found tutoring and helping students after school hours or serving the district in numerous other areas. He is compensated with a supplemental contract, yes; but he regularly puts in much more time than what is estimated by that. There are many instances unseen. Examples include: band booster meetings, instrument repair, coordinating with outside specialists -- all which benefit the program, students, and Southern Local as a whole. The above is more than enough to honor Dodson. However, in addition, he has one of the best relationships with ALL of the student body. This is rare for a specialized teacher. This is evident because students (band alumni and not) often seek his council after graduation. Many have even contacted Dodson to officiate their wedding ceremonies. That is a testament to true relationship gold. He is thoughtful, genuine, kind, driven, and passionate. His desire to impact students' lives and make them the best they can be is undeniably visible. Furthermore, Dodson serves in numerous other capacities for the district. His technology skills, including music and lighting, have served dances, banquets, proms, basketball games, and many other functions. He is an inspiration to the student body, staff, and community. His personality, talent, and compassion are a rare find. Southern Local is blessed beyond measure to have Mr. Chad Dodson. (Nominated by Darren Jackson)   

Congratulations to all recognized students and staff.