By Matt de Simone
At the May 14 meeting of the Botetourt County School Board, students, employees and community partners were recognized for achievements ranging from academic excellence and statewide honors to outstanding service and support for local schools.
Superintendent Dr. Janet Womack opened the recognitions portion of the meeting by honoring the division’s Employees of the Month and reading the nominations submitted on their behalf.
Debbie LaFon, an instructional assistant at Greenfield Elementary School, was recognized as the classified Employee of the Month. Reading from the nomination, Womack said LaFon is “highly professional and a dedicated individual who consistently works hard to support her students.” The nomination also praised LaFon for creating “engaging personalized activities” to help the students meet learning goals while fostering a supportive environment through her “positive attitude” and encouragement.
James River High School Assistant Principal Chase Davidson was recognized as the certified Employee of the Month. Womack read that Davidson “has worked so hard this year,” consistently going “above and beyond” while maintaining a strong rapport with students, parents and staff. The nomination added that he “truly holds James River together.”
The board also recognized several students for accomplishments at the regional and state levels.
James River High School senior Brian Barger earned first place in the high school division of the Virginia School Boards Association Blue Ridge Regional Student Art Contest for his drawing of Big Ben. His winning artwork will advance to statewide competition and is currently displayed at the VSBA office in Charlottesville.
Vivian Vernon of James River High School received recognition for earning first place at the Jackson River Governor’s School Scientific Research Fair for her project, “Turn It Up or Tune It Out,” which examined the effects of music on short-term memory and test performance. Jackson River Governor’s School Director Eddie Graham praised Vernon’s work and noted she was among the school’s top research students this year.
Lord Botetourt High School freshman Olivia Foster was recognized for being selected as an All-Virginia Honors Choir delegate. Womack noted that the honor is considered the equivalent of all-state recognition in athletics. LBHS choir director Ashley Meade said only a handful of students statewide are selected per vocal part and called Foster’s accomplishment especially impressive because she achieved it as a freshman.
LBHS student Sylvana Cavinder was honored for winning a state championship at the Virginia Institute of Cooperative Education State Competition held in March at Graves Mountain Lodge. Cavinder will advance to national competition in Atlanta this summer and also received a $2,000 scholarship.
The board additionally recognized dual enrollment students from James River High School and Lord Botetourt High School who are graduating this month after earning either associate degrees or Uniform Certificates of General Studies through partnerships with Virginia Western Community College and Mountain Gateway Community College.
Students recognized from James River High School included Benjamin Lawson, Aaron Petty, Madeline Rutledge, and Ryder Ward for earning Uniform Certificates of General Studies. Caitlyn Downey and Makenna Saville were recognized for earning associate degrees along with the certificate.
Students recognized from Lord Botetourt High School for earning Uniform Certificates of General Studies included Srijal Baniya, Kennedy Dorsey, Olivia Harvey, Rachel Huard, Jonathan Malue, Reagan Meade, and Breeley Mitchell. Students recognized for earning associate degrees and certificates included Taylor Bowling, Ava Duff, Savanna Johnson, Emily Maddox, Rhiannon Stowe and Ashley Wilmer.
School Board Chair Anna Weddle then led the presentation of the Virginia School Boards Association Business Honor Roll recognitions, which honor businesses and organizations that provide exceptional support to public schools and students.
Mrs. B’s Restaurant in Buchanan, represented by Heather Burnette, was recognized for its continued support of athletic programs, student activities and school events, including providing meals for the entire James River High School football team during home games. Weddle described the restaurant as “a staple on Main Street” that consistently champions both Buchanan and Botetourt County schools.
Brent Hershey State Farm Insurance was recognized for sponsoring the James River High School Unsung Student Hero program, which awards two $1,500 scholarships each year. Sabrina Billings accepted the award on behalf of Hershey. Weddle also cited the company’s support of faculty appreciation efforts, school service projects, athletic tournaments and student activities throughout the county and Roanoke Valley.
Photos courtesy of BCPS
Kim Bergsten State Farm Insurance also received Business Honor Roll recognition for extensive volunteerism and financial support of school and community initiatives. Weddle highlighted Bergsten’s work with Read Mountain Fellowship of Christian Athletes, PTA events, athletic fundraisers and support for local police and fire departments.
The recognitions concluded before the board moved into the regular business portion of the meeting.
