By Matt de Simone
The Botetourt County School Board recognized student athletes from Lord Botetourt High School who recently were given All-State honors in different sports. The students recognized at last Thursday’s meeting were golfer Alisa Davidova, cross country runner Eric Duncan, volleyball player Skylar Morris, and football players Tristan Overbay and Gavin Walker.
School Board Blue Ridge representative Matt East motioned to have a policy for all state championship-bound teams from Lord Botetourt and James River High Schools to have a proper send off involving the available student body prior to the championship game or encompassing tournament. The board unanimously accepted the policy.
“I’d like to congratulate all of our All-State athletes,” East said. “We have tremendous VHSL-sanctioned teams, many of which are preparing to go into district tournaments right now. It is no surprise when an LB or James River goes to a state championship game… They deserve to be recognized.”
The board also recognized BCPS’s Employees of the Month for January. Greenfield Elementary School Counselor Carolyn McLucas accepted her certificate of recognition at the meeting. BCPS Superintendent Dr. Jonathan Russ read from her nomination, “Ms. McLucas is a bright light at Greenfield. She has a warm smile every morning and someone students can easily lean on. She pours her heart into supporting students in the biggest ways.”
Greenfield Elementary custodian Joshua Niday, who was unable to attend the meeting, was also recognized as BCPS Employee of the Month for January.
Additionally, members of the School Board staff received certificates of recognitions in celebration of “School Board Appreciation Month.” Russ thanked each member of the board.
“February marks the celebration of School Board Appreciation Month,” Russ shared. “The theme this year is ‘Champion for Opportunity; Advocates for Excellence.’ We recognize and honor the commitment, service, and dedication of our School Board members… I would like to personally thank you all for the job you do for our students.”
Photos courtesy of BCPS
Russ also recognized BCPS Clerks Susan Albert and Cathy Quinn and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Janet Womack as a part of School Board Appreciation Month. Womack received this year’s Virginia Teaching Learning and Leading (VATLL) Leadership Award.
“Dr. Womack was officially recognized last Friday in Richmond where I had the privilege of attending along with (BCPS Director of Technology) Leah Stevenson,” Russ shared at Thursday’s meeting. “Dr. Womack is an exceptional educator and leader, combining her dedication to excellence with a strong commitment to supporting every student helping them reach their fullest potential.”
To watch last Thursday’s meeting of the Botetourt School Board in its entirety, visit bcps.live/archives.
