The Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education used the Nov. 19 meeting to celebrate students and community volunteers.

The board moved to award an honorary Cuyahoga Falls High School diploma to John Carroll under its newly revised policy; the recipient was not present, and board members said his family would celebrate with a private event.

Mrs. Schaefer presented the Friend of Education award to Mike Horrigan for long‑running volunteer leadership with the Instrumental Music Patrons. Mike Horrigan thanked the board and deferred longer remarks, saying "I'm going to save that for another time."

Human‑resources staff introduced Debbie Baker as the Staff Shining Star, reading multiple staff nominations and praising her 25 years of paraprofessional service and consistent support for students. Board and staff also acknowledged multiple Top Tiger student recognitions from elementary through high school. Nikki Alden, trustee of the Cuyahoga Falls Schools Foundation and Alumni Association, said the foundation awards over $150,000 in scholarships and teacher grants each year and supports student recognition and alumni connections.

The recognitions provided an opportunity for photos and community acknowledgement; these agenda items were ceremonial and not subject to board vote beyond consent to present awards.