New Albany-Plain Local board and community honor outgoing president Debbie Kalinowski
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Summary
Public commenters and board members offered tributes to outgoing Board President Debbie Kalinowski, thanking her for 11 years of service and noting her leadership during levy and district growth. The board presented a small token and adjourned for the evening.
The New Albany‑Plain Local Board of Education on Dec. 8, 2025 heard extended public thanks and board tributes for outgoing President Debbie Kalinowski, who is stepping down after 11 years of service.
Multiple community members used the public‑comment slot to praise Kalinowski’s leadership. Phil Darrow of 7 Foxmoor Drive recalled serving alongside Kalinowski on superintendent interviews and thanked her for what he described as thousands of hours of service to the district. "I appreciate all that you've done... the community is better off for your service," Darrow said.
Casey Kist, the New Albany clinical school liaison to city council, and resident Bill Ebbing also spoke, crediting Kalinowski with steady leadership during the district’s recent levy and for helping strengthen ties between schools and the community. During board remarks, Superintendent Sawyers thanked Kalinowski "on behalf of the administration, faculty, staff, and students," and said the district had served "over 55,000 students" during her tenure (attributed to Sawyers).
Board members presented Kalinowski with a small token of appreciation. Kalinowski, speaking near the meeting’s close, thanked teachers, staff and fellow board members and said she would "be cheering you on always." The board adjourned following the tribute and routine business; the next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 5, 2026.
The comments and board presentations were ceremonial; no policy decisions resulted directly from the tributes.