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WINTERSVILLE -- One local school board member's longtime commitment to students is earning her a state honor.
Kimberly Mark will receive the Ohio School Boards Association's Veteran Board Member Award during the OSBA's 62nd-annual Capital Conference and Trade Show on Sunday for her work with the Indian Creek Local Board of Education as well as her time with the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education.
Mark joins fellow ICBOE member Ted Starkey in the distinction and they are among 33 honorees who will be lauded for more than a quarter-century of service at the event, which is being held virtually in light of the COVID-19 outbreak.
A Mingo Junction resident, Mark said she has seen many great things occur during her tenure at Indian Creek and she was pleased to be recognized for her efforts.
"I have been on the board for 25 years," she said. "I was involved with the PTO when my son was attending Hills Elementary and started to attend the board of education meetings. I was encouraged by my husband, family and friends to run for the board of education seat, and I'm so happy I did."
She has tremendous pride in the schools and is appreciative of the community's support in the Indian Creek school system, particularly with the passage of a bond issue to construct two new buildings and renovate Hills.
"I love watching this district grow with our amazing students, staff and administrators. I have so much pride every time I see the success in our classrooms, sporting events and our amazing band," Mark continued.
"One of the biggest highlights while on the board was seeing the passage of our bond issue because of our wonderful community. Our students and staff and community deserve these new buildings. I am very excited for the openings and look forward to the growth of this district."
Being an alumna of the local school system, she continues to support other future grads.
"I am a graduate of Mingo High School and very happy that I stayed in the district. Go Creek."
Speaking of her time with the JVS, she said she has enjoyed representing the students as they get hands-on instruction in the myriad trade programs from auto collision to small animal science.
"I have enjoyed my time on the JVS Board of Education. The students, administrators and staff are truly dedicated. It's also a privilege to work with other board of education members representing their home schools from Jefferson County," she noted.
Indian Creek Superintendent T.C. Chappelear congratulated Mark on her accomplishment.
"She is a dedicated board member and passionate about the Indian Creek School District. We are very lucky to have her serve on our board of education for the past 25 years," he said.
The OSBA is now in its 65th year and serves Ohio's public school board members and the districts they represent through service, advocacy and creative solutions.