Superintendent Dr. Leece of Coffee County Schools received the Cognia Greg Ormsdorf Servant Leadership Award during the Nov. 20 board meeting, board members said. The award, presented by Cognia at its Southeastern Impact Conference, recognizes ‘‘distinguished commitment to quality and unparalleled servant leadership,’’ a presenter said.

Multiple board members read prepared tributes that credited Dr. Leece with steadying the district through accreditation difficulties and improving outcomes. One tribute said, ‘‘Under his leadership, our accreditation status was fully restored,’’ and noted ‘‘increased graduation rates’’ and a restored district reputation. Speakers described him as ‘‘a leader marked by dedication to our mission, to our people, and to the success of every student and staff member in the Coffee County School System.’’

Dr. Leece, who spoke after the presentations, thanked the board and staff for the opportunity to serve. ‘‘I just want to thank everybody here, our our board especially, y'all for giving me the opportunity to lead and and do the work of the school superintendent here in [Coffee] County,’’ he said. Board members also singled out staff and a colleague named Robin for their roles in supporting district work.

Cognia describes the Greg Ormsdorf Servant Leadership Award as an honor given to leaders who demonstrate long-term dedication to students, educators and the community. The board placed the recognition on the meeting record before moving on to routine business.

Next steps: the board continued with its regular agenda and approved routine consent items and personnel recognitions later in the meeting.