Employees of the Midwest Regional Educational Service Center are training for the upcoming start of the 2022-23 school year.
Staff members from the agency that serves school districts in Logan, Hardin and Shelby Counties gathered recently at Indian Lake High School for their annual Opening Day assembly.
Superintendent Scott Howell spoked to the group about the variety of services the MRESC provides to 17 surrounding school districts.
Howell said the agency does much more than simply provide special education services.
“We’re problem solvers, we’re innovators. And when a district comes to us and says we need this, we need you to create this position…that’s what we do.”
MRESC services include a variety of occupations such as several types of therapists, students with disabilities teachers and instructional assistants, curriculum and gifted support, professional development resources and much more.
Nationally renowned and award-winning longtime educator Dr. Stephen Sroka was the keynote speaker. He stressed the importance of building relationships to become an effective educator.
“Here’s the cool thing…once you get the feelings, you can do the facts and you’ll get the students to pass that test,” Dr. Sroka continued.”Fifty years from now, they will forget those facts, but they will not forget the way you got their heart.”
Several longtime employees earned recognition and gifts for their years of service. They are:
• 5 years- Kendra Calanchini, Rebekka Egbert, Lori Elliott, Jonica Lowery, Craig Ludwig, Erin Maier, Julie Messenger, Nichole Myers, Carie New, Terrena Robson, Connie Schneider, Tara Vehorn and Victoria Wilkinson.
• 10 years- Natasha Ayers, Sarah Castle, Doresa Elliott-Roesner, Keith Thomas and Kristina Voisard.
• 15 years- Lori Board, Elaine Drumm and Jennifer Smith.
• 20 years- Penny Carrig, Lisa Closson and Michelle Poeppleman.
• 25 years- Donna Elson.
• 30 years- Kathleen Whitehead.
Mary Sayers was also recognized for perfect attendance during the 2021-22 school year.
MRESC employees wrapped up the day with departmental meetings.