The Fayette R-III Board of Education surprised longtime music student accompanist Janet O’Neill with its annual Distinguished Citizen of the Year award at a ceremony held on Wednesday, May 7.

Over the years, it is estimated that Mrs. O’Neill has served as an accompanist for more than 1,000 students performing solos at music contests.

“Her true accomplishments cannot be measured in numbers, but can only be observed in the confidence and encouragement that she gives students as they get ready to perform their solos,” said Fayette Superintendent Brent Doolin during last week’s award ceremony.

Also honored was Maggie Severini with the Lincoln Public School Teacher of the Year award. She was chosen by the committee for her exceptional classroom management and instruction. “She creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment in her Health and Physical Education classes where all students feel safe, respected, and motivated to learn,” the committee said.

A graduate of Central Methodist University, Ms. Severini is in her second year teaching at Clark Middle School.

Criteria for the Lincoln Public School Teacher of the Year award include devotion (shows compassion to all students), passion (engages students in the excitement of learning), personal interest (willing to take necessary time to work with students one-on-one), responsibly management of school resources interested to them (effectively utilize his resources to create a learning environment), and is a dedicated public servant (plays an active and useful role in the school and community).

The Lincoln Public School award committee called Ms. Severini a positive, strong role model for students and colleagues alike. “She is kind, compassionate, and always willing to lend a helping hand.” Students describe her as outgoing, confident, and someone they wish to be like when they grow up.

The evening also served as a time when students in grades 6-12 were acknowledged for their scholastic accolades. In addition, high school students earn awards from the student council, as well as teachers in classes such as agriculture, art, business, FACS, math and language arts, health, and math. Additional board of education awards are conferred for scholarship, physical education, science, social studies, and Spanish.

The board also recognized teachers and district staff who have been with the district for several years. Those included Abby Arnett, Judy Busker, Brandon Friebe, Sharon Himmelberg, and Elisha Stroupe for five years; Andy Bentley, Micah Brimer, Stephanie Friebe, Garth Menees, and David Maxfield for 10 years; Therese Stevens for 15 years; Christy Lyon and Billie Williams for 20 years; and Amy Busker and Vanessa Minder for 25 years of dedication.

The board also bid farewell to retirees Glenda Beardmore, Kelly Beller, Melissa Duren, Terri Fletcher, Nancee Gladden, and Collette Thies.

Additional photographs appear on Page 4 of this newspaper.