Board honors students, staff and retiring board member Sally Finelli; foundation awards classroom grants

The Green Local Schools Board of Education used part of its December agenda to recognize student and staff achievements and to honor retiring board member Sally Finelli.

Superintendent and staff introduced the seniors of the month: Sofia, a Spanish Club president and National Honor Society leader who plans to study mechanical engineering, and Gabe, a musician who plans to study instrumental music education at the University of Akron. Dave Hoefer of the Ohio School Boards Association presented Purple Star awards acknowledging the district’s support for military‑connected students and families.

Superintendent remarks noted that the district’s Blessings in a Backpack Thanksgiving distribution served 300 children across 93 families, a district high, and thanked volunteers and community donors including local businesses and the DM and M Grill food truck for providing meals.

Board members delivered tributes to Sally Finelli, who the board said has served the district more than 30 years in multiple roles; Finelli spoke briefly and said she had “loved every minute” of her time on the board. Members presented flowers and other tokens of appreciation. The Green Schools Foundation announced $22,833 in classroom grants awarded this school year, with all four district schools named recipients.

Remarks were collegial and reflective; the board noted the gift of community volunteers and urged public attendance at upcoming holiday and athletic events.