This week is highlighted as National Teacher Appreciation Week and the Greene County School Board plays various roles, one of which is supporting teachers and students.

Greene County School Board President Bonnie Silbaugh believes the teachers and staff in the school district are incredibly important pieces in each students’ lives.

“We all know they are very vital to the success of our students and our families. I think I’ve said this before but our staff are just the closest connection that the district has with our students. And we rely on them a lot to keep those connections, we want them to make sure they’re keeping their classroom procedures running as smoothly as they can, they’re keeping our kids safe, they’re considering our kids feelings and their wellbeing, and they’re doing all of that while they are teaching. And they continuously deliver positive results. So we are so lucky to have the teachers and staff that we do.”   

Silbaugh and other board members hear about teachers collaborating all the time and include support staff to meet the needs of every student. She points out that the continuing trajectory of test scores are progressing each time they happen, which she thinks is only one component, but a good one to note. She talks about another aspect that has seen some positive change is cultural shifts within the school buildings.

“Each of the buildings are making sure that kids feel welcomed. I know when I do drop offs and some of our other school board members do drop offs, we’re seeing more of a presence in our teachers and administrators. And they’re making sure our kids start the day with a high five and so that’s neat to see. Our teachers and support staff do a lot of behind the scenes that everybody listening today doesn’t get to see unless you are in there. It’s great to hear about from that point of view.”   

Silbaugh also believes that the districts’ salaries are very competitive and having a positive work environment also can help not only recruit teachers but retain them for a long time as well.