Savannah R-III board honors special-education staff, highlights preschool growth and local hire

The Savannah R-III Board of Education on May 14 honored special-education staff and heard a report that preschool screenings nearly filled 40 slots this year, leaving an unusually large waiting list.

At the meeting the presiding officer praised Sarah Schussler for nearly eight years in the district, noting Schussler's expanded duties as the district MOSIS coordinator and work supporting DESE finance, TeacherEase and Parents as Teachers. "Your commitment, versatility, and heart for students truly makes you one of THE VERY BEST," the presiding officer said.

Becky Booth nominated and commended paraprofessional Heather Colbert, who Booth said has been part of the Early Learning Center team for six years and "truly stands out as one of the best I've worked with," citing dependability and advocacy for students.

An ELC presenter reported on preschool operations and screenings: "We filled almost 40 slots," the presenter said, adding that the program now has a larger waiting list than in previous years and that staff are conducting transition meetings to ready children for kindergarten. The presenter reminded the board that preschool graduation is scheduled for May 21 at 6:00 p.m. in the elementary gym.

The board also introduced Lena Dulac as a "grow your own" hire from district programs. Board members described Dulac's path through district offerings—including the high school teaching professions program and work in the preschool—and welcomed her as a para in the RISE program at Amazonia Elementary. Dulac briefly acknowledged the recognition.

The recognitions and the ELC report were presented as part of the regular agenda; no formal board policy change or funding vote resulted from the presentation.

The board closed the recognition portion of the meeting and proceeded to routine business and elections of officers later in the session.