News

The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular April meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, April 14, 2025. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley ESC 21st Century Department recently hosted their monthly Site Coordinator Meeting. Emily Morgan, Moonshot Ohio Coordinator with the Ohio Afterschool Network (OAN), joined afterschool program leadership for a presentation on Intel®  Future Skills and Moonshot Ohio. Moonshot Ohio is a collaboration between the Intel Foundation, STEM Next Opportunity Fund, and OAN. MVESC’s involvement in Moonshot Ohio will increase access to quality out-of-school time STEAM learning and career exploration for all 11 after-school program sites currently being served by the MVESC 21st Century Department. Afterschool students, staff, and families across Coshocton, Noble, Perry, and Tuscarawas Counties, will be challenged with hands-on, real-world innovation activities through various engineering challenges. Programs are primed to receive support and site visits by Intel employees and Moonshot Ohio representatives.

“Together, we are igniting curiosity and expanding opportunities for hands-on learning, empowering afterschool students across Ohio to explore real-world innovation and unlock their limitless potential through the power of STEAM and career exploration,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent at MVESC. “Through these opportunities we are sparking innovation and creating pathways for students to explore, imagine, and achieve, unlocking new opportunities in STEAM and career exploration across our communities,” Bainter added.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) has been awarded $100,000 by the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation to purchase and operate a food truck for the MVESC Adult Success Program. The food truck will be operated by students in the MVESC Adult Success Program, offering significant benefits to both the participants and the broader community. For the students, it serves as a valuable opportunity for hands-on job training, equipping them with essential skills in food preparation, customer service, financial management, and teamwork. By engaging in practical, real-world tasks, students will develop greater independence, boost their confidence, and enhance their social communication abilities, fostering meaningful connections within the community.

Additionally, managing schedules and handling responsibilities enhances time management and problem-solving skills. This experience also promotes financial literacy, as students learn to budget, track expenses, and understand the basics of running a business. Most importantly, the food truck serves as a platform for inclusivity, demonstrating that individuals with disabilities are capable of contributing meaningfully to the workforce. The food truck not only benefits students but also enriches the community by promoting awareness and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. It is a powerful movement focused on empowerment, education, and community connection.

The grant from the J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation will be instrumental in advancing the MVESC Adult Success Program mission. “Thanks to the generous support of the Straker Foundation, we will be able to enhance the MVESC Adult Success Program, offering valuable opportunities for developing essential skills while also contributing to the betterment of the community,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent of Muskingum Valley ESC.

William and Mary Helen Straker launched the J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation in 1994. Today, ten descendants of J. William and Mary Helen Straker serve as its board of trustees. The trustees are committed to supporting projects that reflect the Strakers’ values: programs that foster community growth, enable young people to grow in character and integrity, enhance education, and increase community exposure to the arts and sciences.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular March meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, March 10, 2025. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley ESC will host the 36th Annual Student & Teacher Recognition Ceremony on March 5 at 6 p.m. at Secrest Auditorium in downtown Zanesville. This special event honors the exceptional achievements of students and educators across our seven-county region. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, email Shelley Tolliver at shelley.tolliver@mvesc.org or call 740-452-4518.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Records Commission Meeting will be held at 6:45 p.m., Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville. The Board’s regular February meeting will begin immediately following.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular February meeting at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Ohio Valley Educational Service Center Driving School (MOV ESC) is redefining the future of driver’s education across local Ohio school districts. By reintroducing driver’s education within the districts, the MOV ESC Driving School is enhancing accessibility and opportunity for students. Key aspects of this innovative model include student accessibility, educator-led instruction, structured and well-administered programming, a strong emphasis on equity and workforce development, and a consortium-based approach that fosters increased flexibility for participating districts. This initiative is designed to better serve students while meeting the evolving needs of local communities.

On Tuesday, February 4, leadership of the MOV ESC Driving School had the privilege of presenting the model to Governor DeWine at Zanesville High School. The presentation provided an in-depth overview of the program, and students were also in attendance to share their personal experiences and discuss how the initiative has positively impacted their lives. “Thank you, Governor DeWine, for acknowledging the crucial role of driver’s education in shaping the future of our students and supporting school districts. Your dedication to providing these essential skills will not only empower our young drivers but also create a safer, stronger community for all. This initiative will leave a lasting impact on generations to come,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent of MVESC.

Former MVESC Superintendent Lori Snyder-Lowe created the program in 2020 during the pandemic with the COVID Relief Funds.  “I asked our area superintendents about their opinions on what students in our region needed the most and it was clear from everyone, there were not enough driver’s education programs or instructors in Ohio.  I am so proud of the hard work of our entire driver’s ed team and our partnership with OVESC in making this dream become a reality and a guiding force for the state of Ohio.  I want to thank Governor DeWine and the staff at ODEW and ODPS for recognizing the importance of our program and expanding the opportunity for all students,” stated former MVESC Superintendent Lori Snyder-Lowe.

The MOV ESC Driving School is enhancing student opportunities with accessible, educator-led instruction and a focus on equity and workforce development. This innovative approach offers well-structured programming and flexibility for participating districts, paving the way for a brighter future for students and communities.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular February meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 10, 2025. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) has received the Industry Sector Partnership grant from Governor Mike DeWine and the State of Ohio to expand its student healthcare internship program. Over the next 18 months, 150 students will complete a 40-hour paid internship at Genesis Healthcare, earning $599.00 upon completion. “This grant highlights MVESC’s commitment to supporting our partner schools by creating valuable career opportunities for students,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent at MVESC. “We are proud to help connect schools with programs that prepare students for success in the workforce,” Bainter added.

This program, which began last year with 46 students from four schools, is now growing to reach more students across the region. MVESC has partnered with Genesis Healthcare, Zane State College, and the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) to make it possible. Genesis Healthcare will provide hands-on learning experiences, Zane State College will award $500.00 scholarships, and SOCHE will serve as the project’s fiscal agent. “Investing in the success of students is a key part of living our mission and commitment to the communities we serve,” said Dianna LeVeck, Chief Administrative Officer at Genesis Healthcare. “We’re excited to continue our partnership with MVESC to inspire and support local students on their career journeys,” LeVeck continued.

The program will provide students with valuable opportunities to earn, learn, and explore careers while addressing workforce needs in the region.  “These internships not only give students a first-hand look at healthcare careers but also provide financial resources and a pathway to higher education,” said Eastin Lewellen, MVESC Director of Workforce Development.  “It’s a win-win for our students, partners, and region,” Lewellen continued. By offering hands-on experience, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market. Additionally, the program will foster stronger connections between local businesses and educational institutions, ensuring a future-ready workforce that can drive regional economic growth and innovation.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) recently announced Brian Hill from Muskingum County will serve as Governing Board President for 2025.  Hill was reelected January 8, during the MVESC Governing Board’s Organizational Meeting.  Dr. Barb Hansen from Muskingum County will serve as the board’s vice president.

The MVESC Governing Board consists of seven members from Coshocton, Hocking, Morgan, Muskingum and Perry counties. Other governing board members include Robert Doughty from Coshocton County; Ed Penrod from Hocking County; Sharon Slowter from Morgan County; Larry Good from Muskingum County; and Michael Smith from Perry County.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular January meeting at 6:45 p.m., Wednesday, January 8, 2025. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – We are proud to announce that Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) has been awarded a generous grant from the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation in the amount of $5,586.  This funding will play a crucial role in supporting teacher participation in LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) Units 5-8 for educators at East Muskingum and River View Local Schools. This opportunity marks an exciting step forward in enhancing literacy instruction and empowering teachers with the tools they need to make a difference in the lives of their students.

The grant will provide teachers with the opportunity to complete LETRS Units 5-8 online, offering them comprehensive training on literacy strategies grounded in the science of reading. LETRS is a highly respected, evidence-based program designed to equip educators with a deep understanding of how students learn to read and spell, along with effective methods to support diverse learners. This professional development will equip teachers with a range of valuable skills that can be directly applied in their classrooms, improving student literacy outcomes.

In addition to the online coursework, participating teachers will benefit from four professional development sessions led by the MVESC Literacy Specialist, Keith McCarroll. These sessions will serve as an essential support system, where teachers will have the opportunity to reflect on their learning, ask questions, and delve deeper into the material. The Literacy Specialist will also provide individual coaching to participants as they begin to implement their learning through Bridge to Practice, a key component of this program.

Bridge to Practice is a unique and highly effective approach to professional development that allows teachers to immediately apply what they’ve learned in real-world classroom settings. This hands-on method is critical because it enables teachers to see the direct impact of their learning on student performance, reinforcing the effectiveness of the strategies they are acquiring. By implementing these strategies right away, teachers can fine-tune their skills, receive ongoing feedback, and adjust their approach to meet the needs of their students.

Lindsay Rayner, MVESC’s Director of Curriculum and Learning, expressed her enthusiasm for this opportunity, stating, “Muskingum Valley ESC is looking forward to implementing this grant with our partner districts to further teachers’ knowledge of the Science of Reading.” This program is a significant step in strengthening the foundation of literacy education in our local schools, ensuring that educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively teach reading and spelling to all students.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC), in partnership with Coshocton City Schools, is excited to announce that it has been awarded $92,428.04 in funding from the Schooler Family Foundation to support the continuation of essential student programming at Coshocton Elementary during the 2024-2025 school year and Summer of 2025. This generous funding will ensure the continuation of Before School, Afterschool, and Summer Programming designed to enrich the lives of students and provide critical support during out-of-school hours.

The funding from the Schooler Family Foundation will allow the programs to continue offering a variety of services to students, including tutoring, social-emotional skill-building, and youth development activities. These services are designed to support the academic, emotional, and social well-being of students, helping them succeed both inside and outside of the classroom. The programs are aimed at providing a well-rounded experience for students, giving them opportunities to grow in important life skills, improve their academic performance, and develop positive relationships with peers and mentors.

“We are beyond grateful to the Schooler Family Foundation for their incredible generosity and commitment to our students and families,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent at MVESC. “This funding will help ensure that our students at Coshocton Elementary continue to have access to the resources and support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We are excited for the opportunities that this collaboration will create and look forward to continuing to work together to support our students,” Bainter added.

The MVESC and Coshocton City Schools are committed to providing high-quality educational programs that help students build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success. This partnership with the Schooler Family Foundation will allow the schools to continue offering programming that meets the diverse needs of students and fosters a positive, engaging learning environment.

Zanesville, Ohio – New Lexington School District, under the leadership of Superintendent Casey Coffey, showcased the district’s commitment to student success by hosting a Thanksgiving celebration and career exploration day for students in the ALPHA Program.

The ALPHA Program, administered by the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) and sponsored by Judge Luann Cooperrider and the Perry County Juvenile Court, supports adjudicated students in overcoming academic, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges.

On November 21, New Lexington’s Workforce Center welcomed ALPHA students for a day of hands-on career exploration and a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Activities included building robotic blocks, piloting drones, and exploring virtual reality headsets focused on electrical industry curriculum.

Workforce Center Administrator Morgan Holman spearheaded the event, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for ALPHA students. “These students deserve every opportunity to succeed, both in life and in their careers,” said Holman. She continued, stating, “By providing them with real-world experiences and a sense of community, we’re helping them envision brighter futures.”

Bryan Kanavel, Director of MVESC’s Alpha Program, highlighted the significance of opportunities like this for his students. “This experience provided our students with valuable career exposure and reinforced their sense of worth. We are deeply appreciative of New Lexington for making this opportunity possible,” Kanavel stated.

Students enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and more, creating a festive atmosphere of gratitude and community. The collaboration among Perry County school districts ensured all ALPHA students could participate, reflecting a shared commitment to their success.

For more information about the ALPHA Program and MVESC’s initiatives, please visit www.mvesc.org.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular December meeting at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.

Contact Monte Bainter, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.

MVESC Governing Board Vice President Barb Hansen with past Susan Writing Award recipients.

Zanesville, Ohio – Family, friends, educators, and talented young authors gathered at the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) to celebrate the milestone publication of The Susan Awards: A Collection of Winning Writing. This remarkable book showcases the creativity and exceptional writing talents of student authors whose entries have earned recognition and scholarships over the years. To date, the scholarship program has awarded more than $90,000 to aspiring writers.

The Susan Writing Awards were established to honor the memory of Susan Mahoney, a gifted and passionate young writer whose life was tragically cut short during her sophomore year. Determined to channel their grief and celebrate Susan’s love for writing, her family partnered with the Muskingum Valley Community Foundation to create this enduring scholarship program. For the past 20 years, students from the Muskingum Valley region have been invited to submit their best works for a chance to win scholarships and have their writing recognized at an annual awards ceremony.

To further commemorate Susan’s legacy, many of these award-winning pieces have been compiled into The Susan Awards: A Collection of Winning Writing. Susan’s father, Jim Mahoney, expressed his support by stating, “We are pleased with this book honoring the best in student writing over the past twenty years from the area’s high school seniors while at the same time remembering our beloved Susan.” This nearly 200-page publication highlights the creativity and talent of student writers across the years and is available for purchase at the Muskingum Valley ESC and on Amazon. Proceeds from book sales will directly support future scholarships, ensuring that Susan’s legacy continues to inspire and empower new generations of writers.  In following, Mahoney also announced that the scholarship amount has increased for future recipients.

MVESC Governing Board Vice President Barb Hansen stated, “Sunday’s event was truly a celebration and recognition of outstanding writing of regional high school seniors across the past twenty years.  It marked a collaborative effort of high school English teachers, a panel of judges, English majors from Muskingum University, 1,000 high school seniors, and a family who has honored their daughter’s memory by encouraging and inspiring future generations of writers.”

For more information about the Susan Writing Awards or to purchase a copy of the book, please contact Shelley Tolliver at 740-452-4518.

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) has been awarded over $18,000 by the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation to upgrade the facilities at Heart to Heart school. The grant will fund essential safety and security enhancements, creating a more supportive and stable learning environment for students with significant cognitive needs and behavioral challenges. These upgrades aim to provide a setting where students can thrive academically and personally, free from distractions that may impact their learning and development.

Heart to Heart is a specialized school serving students with moderate to severe cognitive needs who also experience behavioral challenges that can impact their ability to learn effectively. The program focuses on creating a supportive, tailored environment to help these students reach their fullest potential.

Susan Straker Holdren, Executive Director and President of the Straker Foundation, stated, “The Straker Foundation is pleased to support a project that allows children to learn and interact in a safe environment. This aligns with our founders’ interest in education and youth development.”

The J.W. and M.H. Straker Foundation grant will play a crucial role in enhancing the mission of Heart to Heart. “The generous support from the Straker Foundation will allow us to make critical upgrades to our facilities, providing a safer, more secure environment where our students can focus on their learning and personal growth,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent of Muskingum Valley ESC.

William and Mary Helen Straker launched the J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation in 1994. Today, ten descendants of J. William and Mary Helen Straker serve as its board of trustees. The trustees are committed to supporting projects that reflect the Strakers’ values: programs that foster community growth, enable young people to grow in character and integrity, enhance education, and increase community exposure to the arts and sciences.

Zanesville, Ohio – Monte Bainter officially assumed his role as Superintendent of the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC), Friday, November 1, 2024. Bainter succeeds Lori Snyder-Lowe, who has led MVESC since August 1, 2019, following her time as Superintendent at Morgan Local School District.

Bainter brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership to MVESC. Most recently, he served for eight years as Superintendent of Logan-Hocking Local School District in Hocking County, where he oversaw operations in a district serving approximately 4,000 students. Prior to his role at Logan-Hocking, Bainter held the position of Superintendent at Maysville Local Schools in Muskingum County for 11 years. Both districts are members of MVESC, giving Bainter valuable insight into the region’s educational needs and opportunities.

In stepping into his new role, Bainter expressed his enthusiasm: “I am very excited to be a part of such a great organization! The MVESC is an established leader in local, state, and national educational best practices that impact student success. The reputation that the MVESC has developed under the leadership of Dr. Miller, Dr. Mahoney, Dr. Murray, Mr. Branch, and Mrs. Lowe is exemplary, and their reputation as leaders in public education is unparalleled in the state. I look forward to continuing that tradition. It will truly be an honor and privilege to work with school districts from all over the state. I want to thank the MVESC Governing Board for having the confidence in me to lead such a wonderful organization.”

The MVESC Governing Board is confident in Bainter’s leadership. Board President Brian Hill noted, “Monte’s years of district leadership will serve him well in his new role with MVESC, and we know he will be a great addition to the MVESC.”

The Ohio School Benefits Cooperative’s General Purpose GAAP Financial Statements for the year ended June 30, 2024 are available on request. For information, contact Danielle Devoll, Treasurer, Muskingum Valley ESC, at 205 North Seventh St, Zanesville, OH 43701.