Board proclaims Arts Education Month, honors staff and athletes; appoints safety and math coordinators

The Osceola County School Board opened its meeting with several recognitions and two personnel introductions and appointments.

The board proclaimed March 2025 as Arts Education Month to highlight school-based arts education and invited the public to view student artwork displayed in the building. Ryan Adams, district coordinator of athletics, introduced multiple winter-season teams and coaches and noted academic and athletic achievements across the district.

The board presented Romero Hernandez, lead plant manager/custodial lead at Tohopekaliga High School, with recognition as the district’s honoree after a nationwide voting process; district speakers described Hernandez as leading a team of custodians and praised his dedication to school cleanliness and student support.

The board also introduced and took a public introduction from Tion Downey, the district’s newly approved coordinator of safety, security and emergency management. Downey said, "My commitment is to ensure the safety and security of the environment where our children and students can learn and grow without fear," and thanked board members and staff for the appointment.

The board announced the appointment of Dr. Hope Strange as the new K–12 mathematics coordinator for curriculum. Dr. Strange said she was "deeply humbled and excited to lead the K–12 mathematics team" and thanked district mentors and colleagues.

These personnel items were presented as introductions and appointments; the board acknowledged the honorees and administrators and then proceeded to other business.