Under the warm glow of the Ravenna City School District auditorium, a sense of pride and community filled the air as the Ravenna School District Board of Education gathered on May 22, 2025, to honor outstanding individuals within their educational family. The monthly "Face of a Raven" awards ceremony recognized both staff and students who have exemplified exceptional dedication and spirit, celebrating their contributions to the school community.

The ceremony began with heartfelt acknowledgments of three dedicated adults, starting with Deanna Krauss, an educational assistant at Ravenna High School. Her years of service and advocacy for students were highlighted, particularly her recent initiative that fostered a collaboration between the high school’s shop class and the Portage County Farm Bureau, resulting in a generous donation of a new saw stop table saw. Her commitment to both the school and the community was described as unparalleled.

As the spotlight shifted to the students, the audience was treated to inspiring stories of young achievers. Riley Dennis from Ravenna Preschool was recognized for her kindness and growth, while Kevin Weir from West Park School was celebrated for his remarkable progress in kindergarten, showcasing not only academic skills but also a joyful enthusiasm for learning. Malachi Tipton from Williard Elementary was commended for his thoughtful nature and perseverance, embodying the school’s values of respect and responsibility.

The accolades continued with Braden Richards from Brown Middle School, who was noted for his positivity and leadership, and Genevieve Fletcher from Ravenna High School, who made a significant impact as a classroom aide in the adaptive cooking class. Her dedication to supporting special needs students earned her multiple nominations from teachers who praised her big heart and can-do attitude.

The ceremony also recognized Alexis Hollander, a fourth grader from West Main, for her outstanding character and respectfulness. The event culminated with a special acknowledgment of Mister Dougherty, a custodian at West Main, who received an unprecedented eight nominations from staff. His selflessness and support during challenging times for the school community were particularly highlighted, showcasing the deep appreciation his colleagues have for his unwavering commitment.

As the applause echoed through the auditorium, the ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the strong bonds within the Ravenna School District. The event concluded with an invitation for photos, allowing families and friends to capture the joy of the moment, a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Ravenna community.