Allegany County Board honors retirees and state champion student-athletes; Superintendent Jeff Blank to retire June 30

The Allegany County Board of Education used part of its June 10 meeting to recognize longtime district employees for their service and to honor student-athletes who won state championships this year. The board also acknowledged Superintendent Jeff Blank’s upcoming retirement, which staff said will be effective June 30.

Board members read the list of retirees and presented certificates of appreciation. Among staff recognized were Michael McGowan (51 years of service), Roberta Clark (40 years), Karen McCabe (40 years) and a number of staff with decades of service, including multiple employees with 30-plus years. The board thanked the retirees for their dedication to the district and its students.

The board also recognized individual state track and field champions from Allegany County Public Schools. Presenters and coaches highlighted accomplishments including:

- Ryan Wu (Allegany High School) — silver medal in the shot put and state champion in the discus; presenter noted he will attend UMBC. - Avery Miller (Allegany High School) — a multi‑event state champion who set the Maryland state record for most individual state track titles with 14 across her career; presenter noted she will attend Penn State. - Landon Sweitzer and Maylee Plummer — state champions in the high jump (presented by coach Zach Alkire); Maylee said she plans to compete collegiately at James Madison University. - Sofia Bridal — state champion in the 3,200-meter run, presented by coach Jaren Hawkins.

Coaches and presenters credited the students' work ethic and coaches with their success. Coach presenters praised individual determination and training and noted several student-athletes will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

The board also formally recognized Superintendent Jeff Blank, who has worked in the district for 37 years, including six years as superintendent. Board members praised Blank’s service across roles (teacher, assistant principal and central-office positions) and thanked him for his leadership. In remarks, Blank said the core value he hopes students carry forward is "hard work." He told the board he and his wife will remain in Allegany County and that he will continue to support the district as a community member after retirement.

No formal action accompanied the recognitions; they were presented as part of the meeting's agenda.