January is School Board Recognition Month, and Licking Heights Local Schools 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 Dr. Kevin S. Miller 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.”
Serving as a link between the community and classroom, school board members are elected to establish the policies that provide the framework for public schools. The Licking Heights board is responsible for an annual budget of $100 million, 5,400 students, 650 employees and seven schools.
Major accomplishments over the past school year include the management and execution of a major construction project which included the opening of a new Transportation Center, Athletic Complex, elementary school, Lima Ridge Elementary, and high school addition; implementing a full elementary redistricting plan and district academic rebrand; the creation of the district’s first-ever Strategic Plan; and the creation of The Academy at Licking Heights, an alternative learning space for high school students.
“School board members give the community a voice in education decision-making,” Dr. Miller said. “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.”
Board members currently serving Licking Heights are:
—Tracy Russ, 11-year board member and owner of Russ and Associates Accounting and Tax Specialists. Mrs. Russ is the parent of two Licking Heights alumni.
—Tiffany Blumhorst, five-year board member and Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) at Switchbox Inc. Ms. Blumhorst is the parent of four students currently attending Licking Heights.
—Mark Rader, seven-year board member and project planner with Worthington Industries. Mr. Rader is also a proud alumnus of Licking Heights and a lifelong district resident.
—Paul Johnson, eight-year board member and teacher at Columbus City Schools. Mr. Johnson is the parent of one alumnus and one current student at Licking Heights.
—Hannington Tsikiwa, the newest member of the board who began his term in 2024. Mr. Tsikiwa is an international treasury advisor with Cardinal Health and the parent of a current student and 2024 alumna.