January is school board recognition month and the Brookfield Local School District is celebrating its board members for their dedication and commitment to the district and its students! 

 “The dedication, commitment and vision of our school board members shape the future of our schools and students,” Superintendent Toby Gibson said. “Their focus is always on helping all our students be successful in their future endeavors. Celebrating School Board Recognition Month is one way to say thanks for all they do.”  

Board members serving Brookfield Local are Ms. Ronda Bonekovic, Mrs. Sarah Kurpe, Mr. Derek Mihalcin, Mr. Jerry Necastro, and Mrs. Melissa Sydlowski. Serving as a link between the community and the classroom, school board members are elected to establish the policies that provide the framework for public schools. The Brookfield Local School District’s board is responsible for an annual budget of approximately $12 million, 1030 students, 125 employees, and one K-12 campus. 

Under the leadership of our Board of Education, the Brookfield Local Schools have been able to expand our STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and CTE (career-technical education) Courses throughout the district.  By creating a K-12 career-based STEM program, the district is now introducing students to a variety of career clusters in every grade from kindergarten through eight. In high school, the curriculum culminates into seven pathways to graduation.  These pathways include a variety of Industry Recognized Credentials that students can utilize no matter what their “E” may be…. Enrollment (college/trade school), Employment (workforce), or Enlistment (military).

“School board members give the community a voice in education decision-making," Gibson adds. "Even though we make a special effort to show our appreciation in January, their contribution is a year-round commitment. Please thank our board members and let them know we support them and appreciate their service to our district.”