March 13, 2023 – Members of the Columbus Board of Education and two school programs recently received honors from the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA). 

During the OSBAs 2023 Central Region Spring Conference on Wednesday, March 8, the association recognized Outstanding Programs, Outstanding Schools, Master Board Member, Veteran Board Members, and OSBA STAR Award winners.

The OSBA recognizes recipients for service, training, aptitude, and recognition in its STAR Award Program. Board President Jennifer Adair received the 2023 OSBA STAR Award for service. In addition, Board members Dr. Tina Pierce and Eric Brown received the OSBA STAR award in training. 

“Service to others is a core leadership, professional, and personal philosophy. I truly believe that to make a difference; I must roll up my sleeves and get involved,” said Columbus Board of Education President Jennifer Adair. “I’m grateful to the Ohio School Board Association for recognizing my service to public education within Columbus City Schools and at the state level through my leadership on the OSBA governance and service committees.”

The OSBA also recognized board members for their milestone years of service. Board Member Michael Cole was honored for being a 10-year veteran board member, and Ramona Reyes for being a 15-year veteran board member. 

“I am humbled by the trust and support of OSBA and the residents of our great city of Columbus,” said Columbus Board of Education Member Michael Cole. “Together, we have opened many doors for adults and children to excel. I look forward to continuing the legacy of public education in Columbus City Schools.” 

“It’s been an honor to serve the CCS community for the last 15 years,” said Columbus Board of Education member Ramona Reyes. “Public education is vital to the success of our community and state. A scholarship from a soup company changed my life and lifted me out of poverty, and it is my mission to give back to the community that mentored me.” 

The Dominion Middle School STEAM Team and Fort Hayes photography program also received honors Wednesday, both recognized as Outstanding Programs. 

“Human beings learn best in emotionally safe environments where they can work collaboratively and make connections to engage with the curriculum,” said Dominion Middle School Principal Dorothy Flanagan. “Kids love to experiment, build, and create. These are natural child tendencies that educators need to tap into more consistently to build academic knowledge and skills. We are committed to doing this at Dominion. 

Corrie Witt, Fort Hayes photography instructor, said she was honored to see the program recognized. 

“My students and I were honored to represent Columbus City Schools at the OSBA Conference and to receive an award for Outstanding Program,” said Fort Hayes Photography Teacher Corrie Witt. “I know that my students are producing high-level work, and I love having opportunities to share that work with a wider audience. The students enjoyed sharing their images and knowledge of photography with attendees across the state and seeing the diverse projects happening in other districts.”