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Great Valley SD board salutes departing directors Samantha Schwan and David Barrett
Summary
Board members paid tribute to Samantha Schwan and David Barrett for combined decades of volunteer service; both directors reflected on accomplishments including new facilities, pandemic-era decisions and mentoring colleagues.
At the start of the meeting, the board recognized two departing directors, Samantha Schwan and David Barrett, thanking them for multiple terms of volunteer service.
Colleagues praised Schwan for eight years of detailed oversight, asking difficult questions and centering students and teachers in decisions. A board member said Schwan was a mentor and described her as "the paradigm of what it means to be on the school board." Schwan reflected on district growth during her tenure, including opening a new 5–6 center and navigating the pandemic.
David Barrett was honored for 16 years of service, including years as board president and leadership on operations and finance. Doctor Rizzo and others credited Barrett with long-term fiscal stewardship and mentorship. Barrett thanked his family and colleagues and said he had worked with many superintendents, principals and staff during his tenure.
The board presented small tokens of appreciation, including engraved recognitions and a commemorative brick through the district foundation that will be placed near the stadium walkway. An absent board member submitted a written statement of thanks that was read aloud.
