Director of Schools Dr. Duke told the board Oct. 28 that Rita, who began as a custodian at Salem Elementary and now also helps maintain the district's new transportation and maintenance building, was the district's October "Best of MCS" honoree.

"Rita single handedly prepared the building for its opening, and her pride in her work is evident in every corner of that building," Dr. Duke said. Assistant Superintendent Mr. Bartch and other staff described Rita as reliable, detail-oriented and beloved by students who ride district buses. Rita spoke briefly at the podium and thanked the board.

Later in the meeting board members praised the district's school resource officers and gave particular recognition to Scott Sperry, the SRO at Bradley Academy, for daily interaction with students on playgrounds and as a positive presence in the school community. "He's out there throwing the ball with them every day," a board member said, and members said that such interactions help build relationships between students and law enforcement.

Both recognitions were ceremonial and required no board action beyond public acknowledgment at the meeting.