2024 Vermilion Local School District New Teachers were welcomed today at a luncheon sponsored by the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce.
This afternoon, the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce, Vermilion Local School District Administration, and several Main Street Vermilion Board Members warmly welcomed 20 new teachers to the district at the 2024 New Teachers Luncheon. Held at Bowl Thyme on 4855 Liberty Avenue, the event began at 12 pm and provided an opportunity for the new educators to meet and mingle with the community.
The atmosphere at Bowl Thyme was warm and inviting, with guests enjoying both the food and the lively conversations. A variety of dishes were served, including salads, rice bowls, and mashed potato bowls, each accompanied by a selection of vegetables and meats. Refreshments were readily available from the drink station, and dessert was a standout—a delightful apple crisp and candy apple crème-filled creation that left everyone impressed. The food was excellent, and attendees were encouraged to visit Bowl Thyme if they hadn’t yet had the chance.
Following the meal, several key figures from the community spoke. Sandy Coe, Executive Director of the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce, addressed the group, followed by Shawn Kipp, President of the Chamber, Mayor Jim Forthofer, and Dr. David Hile, Superintendent of Vermilion Local School District. Pastor Preston from Grace Methodist Church offered a prayer over the meal, adding a thoughtful touch to the gathering.
As a special treat, a raffle was held, and Assistant Principal Mike Kostyack of Sailorway Middle School was the lucky winner of a ticket to the Big Splash event. The luncheon concluded with well-wishes for the new teachers as they embark on their journey with Vermilion Local Schools.
New Teacher Attendees:
Vermilion High School:
- David Funk, Career Tech 8th Grade
- Olivia Eldridge, Vocal Music
Sailorway Middle School:
- Wendy Callewart, SMS Principal
- Olivia Eldridge, Vocal Music
- Mike Kostyack, SMS Assistant Principal
- Audra Metzger, Intervention Specialist
- Samantha Palacios, Intervention Specialist
- Niki Yacabozzi, 5th Grade
Vermilion Elementary School:
- Kristin Kovac, Intervention Specialist
- Madeline Uther, Kindergarten
- Brenna Varga, 3rd Grade
Vermilion Local Schools Administration:
- Dr. David Hile, Superintendent
- Wes Weaver, Assistant Superintendent
- Karen Blackburn, Director of Pupil Services
- Jennifer Bengele, VHS Principal
- Jay Lukasco, VHS Assistant Principal
- Heather Lamers, VHS Assistant Principal
- Matt Malear, VES Principal
- Breann Rebman, VES Assistant Principal
- Beth Lambert, Vermilion Teachers Association
- Sandy Williams, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
As the event came to a close, the new teachers were wished the best of luck for the upcoming school year. The luncheon not only marked the beginning of their journey with Vermilion Local Schools but also emphasized the strong sense of community that defines the Vermilion area.
Special Thanks are extended to Mayor Jim Forthofer, Main Street Vermilion, Tiffany’s Flowers & Gifts, Burning River Boutique, Kingston of Vermilion, WGU Ohio, The Olive Scene, Ripcho Studio, Grace United Methodist Church, Betsy Wakefield, Vermilion PhotoJournal, Vermilion History Museum, Erie I Anchor, Crystal Treasure Box, Poppin’ Around, Harbortown Flag & Marina, Swan Creek Candle Vermilion, Dollhouse Boutique, Crystal Krause BD Studio, Bergan Dickinson BD Studio, Vacationland Federal Credit Union, and Ed & Linda Cyrek of Keller Williams Citywide for their generous support and contributions.
