The Lacey Township Board of Education used part of its meeting Thursday to recognize educators and students with district awards and student presentations.

The board named six Teachers of the Year representing district schools and recognized two Lacey Township High School seniors as April seniors of the month. Principals and district leaders introduced each honoree and family members joined recipients onstage.

Why it matters: The awards acknowledge classroom and extracurricular contributions across the district's elementary, middle and high schools and took place the same night residents packed the meeting to speak about budget concerns.

What happened: Student Government Association representative Kayla delivered the SGA monthly update, describing recent fundraisers and upcoming events including a May 5 final SGA meeting and June 3 'Mr. Lacey' fundraiser. The board announced an April Unsung Hero award recipient and then principals introduced student seniors of the month: Sofia Buscani (selected in recognition of academic and musical contributions) and Dylan Zack (senior baseball captain, who earlier that day pitched a reported perfect game).

Teacher of the Year recognitions: Principals and district administrators introduced the district's six teachers of the year, praising instructional impact and community service. The honorees and their schools announced at the meeting included:

- Keena Frechette — Lacey Township High School teacher of the year (recognized for English and digital media instruction and Interact Club leadership);
- Melissa Paz — Mill Pond/Middle School teacher of the year (recognized for STEM instruction and flipped classroom practices);
- [Cedar Creek] Mrs. Papa — Cedar Creek Elementary School teacher of the year (recognized for 28 years of service and curriculum leadership);
- Kirsten Nachman — Forkin River School teacher of the year (recognized for extensive service across grade levels and for founding a district "Hero Club");
- Debbie Rittner — Winokah Harbor School teacher of the year (recognized for classroom leadership and whole‑child instruction);
- Ashley Smita — Mill Pond Elementary teacher of the year (recognized for speech pathology work and district team leadership).

Superintendent remarks: Superintendent Zelensky praised the honorees' "achievement takes on many different forms," he said, noting many teachers had long histories in the district. Several presenters also highlighted district instrumental and choral music participants who were selected for an elementary honors band festival.

Ending: The awards portion of the meeting preceded a long public comment period on the budget; board members said they valued the recognition events and thanked teachers, students and families for their work and attendance.