The Nordonia Hills City School District Board of Education used part of its Dec. 15 meeting to recognize two departing board members, Amy Vadich and Matthew Kearney, with Impact Awards and remarks.

An administrator presented plaques “in recognition of your service” and described Vadich as bringing a "student-centered lens" and Kearney as emphasizing safety and fiscal responsibility. The presenter said the awards acknowledged the "impact" the two members made on the district and its students.

Both Vadich and Kearney spoke briefly. Vadich thanked colleagues and said serving on the board had been a "tremendous honor and privilege"; Kearney reflected on four years of service and said he "has more faith in this district than I ever did before," noted his family milestones and said he plans to stay involved in other ways.

Why it matters: Recognitions formalize departing leadership roles and communicate continuity to staff and the community. Board members repeatedly framed the remarks around student-centered decision-making and fiscal stewardship.

What happened next: The board proceeded to routine business and personnel votes later in the meeting; there were no public comments during the open forum portion.

The tribute concluded with light remarks about cake from a prior work session and applause; the meeting continued with routine reports and votes.