NEW YEAR, NEW EMPLOYEES — Buckeye Local Schools recognized incoming staff members during its New Employee Welcome Breakfast Aug. 8. New employees include, from left, front, Pam Zink, reading and social studies, Buckeye West; Nicole Billingsley, paraprofessional, Buckeye North; Tori Luyster, educational aide, Buckeye Local Junior/Senior High School; Hailee Nelson, preschool, Buckeye South; and Dominic Gorence, intervention specialist, BLJSHS; and back, Greta Roe, ED unit, Buckeye South; Cameron Best, FFA/agriculture education, BLJSHS; Kristina Williams, intervention specialist, BLJSHS; Crystal Windsheimer, educational aide, BLJSHS; Heather Keenan, intervention specialist, Buckeye North; Rachael Scott, intervention specialist, Buckeye South; and Chris Kiedaisch, career-based instruction, BLJSHS. -- Contributed

CONNORVILLE — Buckeye Local Schools recognized a dozen new employees who are joining the district’s staff for the 2024-25 school year.

An estimated 40 people gathered in the commons of Buckeye Local Junior/Senior High School Aug. 8 for the district’s annual New Employee Welcome Breakfast.

The most recent additions to the roster were spotlighted. Administrators and school officials, along with union leaders, were among those who addressed the audience.

Participants enjoyed a meal provided by the Nutrition Group.

Superintendent Coy Sudvary welcomed everyone, saying he is excited about the employees and the year ahead.

“It’s an excellent time in the district,” Sudvary commented. He said officials have worked to ensure all staffing positions are in place when schools resumes Thursday.

“We want to recruit, retain and reward our employees,” Sudvary continued. “We have worked toward the goal throughout my first year as superintendent and will continue to create an environment of support for all employees. I look forward to working with all of you.”

Assistant Superintendent Julie Packer and Susan Bachmann, Ohio Teacher Evaluation System coordinator and 21st Century Grant afterschool program manager, have collaborated with West Liberty University and the Jefferson County Educational Service Center to make that happen.

He assured resources are available to help staff, noting principals and others are available for guidance in every building.

“Great schools include great people and programs, and we need to have great people to have great programs,” Sudvary said. Packer said she and Bachmann were dividing duties and are willing to help staff with anything needed.

Chuck Kokiko, superintendent for the Jefferson County Educational Service Center, offered further assistance through his organization.

“I’m glad to see new and exciting things coming to Buckeye Local,” Kokiko said. “I hope you continue to be a positive change and a positive voice.”

Meanwhile, Sudvary thanked the school board for its unwavering support, noting the dedication of President Ashley West, Vice President Teresa George and members Clint Powell, Brooke Stingle and Melissa Supanik. Supanik, a retired Buckeye teacher, commented how grateful she was to be part of the district.

“Thank you for choosing Buckeye Local and investing your time in our students,” she added.

Also recognized were district administrators, central office staff, Buckeye Local Classroom Teachers Association President Genevieve Varkony and Ohio Association of Public School Employees President Kimberly McKnight.

New staff members were recognized by building leaders, including Luke Parsons, high school prinicpal; Jason Kovalski, junior high principal; Susan Nolan, North Elementary principal; Lori Roberts, South Elementary principal; Brian DiCola, West Elementary principal; and Lori Vinci, transportation superviser.

Sudvary concluded the breakfast by saying positive things were on the district’s horizon.

“At the end of the day, we have students who come here to make connections and feel like they have a place to belong,” he said. “It’s our responsibility to create that fire to inspire them and make them want to come to school. Our students are great kids. We have to reach out and create opportunities and forge connections. It’s a great place to be. I truly believe in the district and I truly believe in all of you.”