Ohio County Schools Announces Top Employees

WHEELING - Ohio County Schools has announced both its Teacher of the Year and Service Personnel of the Year for the 2023-2024 school year.

The honors came during the board of education's meeting Monday night.

Middle Creek Elementary kindergarten teacher Kristy Villani is the Teacher of the Year, while Jennifer Mulley - an operations bus aide - was Service Personnel of the Year.

"Mrs. Villani is the perfect example of who we want our children to start our day with. She is a Nationally Board Certified Teacher, and she exemplifies positivity and skilled teaching," said Superintendent Kim Miller.

Middle Creek Principal Katrina Lewis termed Vilani "an exceptional educator."

"She possesses a genuine passion for teaching. She is always searching for new and innovative ways to improve her instruction," Lewis said. "Recently, she received a grant aimed at enhancing the educational experience for her students.

"Her kindness and compassion help to create a wonderful learning environment for her students. She is always willing to serve on both school and county committees to assist with improving student learning for not only her students, but all students at Middle Creek Elementary and Ohio County Schools. She is truly deserving of this award."

Villani's application discussed the heart and soul that goes into her role as a teacher, according to school officials.

Mulley was praised for the positive attitude she brings to the job.

"When you are greeted by the smiling face of Jenn ... it's just the perfect way to start a student's day," Miller said. "Jenn truly cares about everyone. She meets her students with a smile and her fellow employees with a joyful attitude each and every day. She is a team player and works to help everyone be successful."

Mulley's application discussed her volunteer work with the Red Cross as a frequent blood donor, and her participation in various Christmas drives.

The principal at each school nominated both a teacher and a support staff member for the awards, and the nominees also were honored Monday night.

- Bethlehem Elementary: instructional support interventionist Hannah Howard and secretary Dana Squier.

- Elm Grove Elementary: media teacher Tim Shepherd and cook Sheila Little.

- Madison Elementary: teacher Jennifer Davis, and aide Rebecca Morris.

- Middle Creek Elementary: Vilani and cook Robin Murphy.

- Ritchie Elementary: teacher Mia Huck and paraprofessional Marcie Brammer.

- Steenrod Elementary: teacher Lindsey Perry and aide Charity Parsons.

- Warwood Elementary: kindergarten teacher Missy O'Connell and custodian Steven Gregory.

- West Liberty Elementary: teacher Summer Timbs and aide Rebecca Wear.

- Woodsdale Elementary: kindergarten teacher Trisha Zurbach and cook Edith Ward.

- Bridge Street Middle School: special education teacher Amy Murphy and custodian Sabrina Adams.

- Triadelphia Middle School: teacher Abby Reeves and cook Trina Weitzel

- Warwood Middle School: teacher Jonathan Dodd and secretary Patty Wilkinson.

- Wheeling Middle School: teacher Krista Zambito and aide Stephanie Richards.

- Wheeling Park High School: math teacher Elizabeth Jeffers and secretary Lexey Frangos.

The Ohio County Schools central office also makes three nominations for the Service Personnel of the Year award. Their nominees were Mulley, special education coordinator Lacey Gonzales and maintenance worker Eric Parsons.

The board Monday night also accepted the pending retirements of WPHS Assistant Principal Stephanie Bugaj and Woodsdale Elementary media specialist Sandra Wiseman. Bugaj has worked 30 years with the school district; and Wiseman, 36 years.

The board also accepted the resignation of Bridge Street Middle School Principal Jessica Broski-Birch, who has accepted the job as head of school at Wheeling Country Day School for the next school year.

They also honored Steenrod Elementary Principal Michele Dietrich for being among the recipients of this year's "Champion of Children" awards.