The Susan Writing Award Scholarship, The Legacy Continues
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.
Muskingum Valley ESC Receives Grant from the Straker Foundation
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.
Monte Bainter Officially Begins Tenure as Superintendent at Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center
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.”
General Purpose GAAP Financial Statements Available
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.
Muskingum Valley ESC Receives High Performing ESC Designation from ODE
ZANESVILLE, Ohio –The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) applied for and has received the High Performing ESC designation from the Ohio Department of Education. A High Performing ESC has generated total cost savings of at least 5% for its client school districts for primary services secured from the ESC instead of another source. Muskingum Valley far exceeded this 5% benchmark, with a total savings of 68.9% in 2024.
“Ohio’s educational service centers provide their client schools and districts with exceptional services at reasonable costs,” says Craig Burford, Executive Director of the Ohio ESC Association (OESCA). “Over the past eight years, Ohio ESCs have averaged 35.95% cost savings to districts per year, for a total of over $687.6 million in savings statewide for primary services since 2016.”
The Ohio Department of Education evaluated each application based on the total percentage of cost savings the ESC generated for its client districts calculated based on the price charged to the client by the ESC for a primary service.
“We are excited to once again be named a High Performing ESC by offering our districts outstanding programs at the lowest possible cost,” said Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, MVESC. “Our team prides itself on providing supports that help students learn, and teachers teach,” she added.
Ohio’s Educational Service Centers (ESCs) provide schools and school districts with professional development, technology, support, planning, and administrative services that help improve student learning, enhance the quality of instruction, expand access to resources, and maximize operating/fiscal efficiencies. The Ohio ESC Association (OESCA) supports, educates, and advocates for Ohio’s ESCs. www.oesca.org.
MVESC Governing Board to Hold November Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular November meeting at 6:30 p.m., Monday, November 4, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
MVESC Brings Career Awareness to Local Schools
Area students engaged with local businesses during the JA Inspire event, exploring career opportunities and building connections for their future.
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC), in collaboration with Muskingum County Ohio Means Jobs and the Zanesville Muskingum Chamber of Commerce, hosted the highly anticipated Junior Achievement Inspire Event, aimed at fostering career awareness for students in local schools. Held at the Muskingum County Fairgrounds, the event brought together over 60 local businesses and more than 1,500 students from 13 area schools to engage in a hands-on job fair, providing students a unique opportunity to explore various career pathways.
The JA Inspire program is designed to empower students by exposing them to real-world careers, helping them to better understand the job market and the skills needed to succeed. Through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and conversations with professionals from diverse industries, students were able to gain invaluable insights into potential future career options.
“We’re thrilled to bring the JA Inspire event to our local schools,” said Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent at MVESC. “This program offers our students an unparalleled opportunity to explore different career paths and engage with local businesses that are vital to our community. It’s our goal to equip these students with the knowledge and inspiration they need to build successful futures right in their local community,” Snyder-Lowe added.
Dana Matz, President of the Zanesville Muskingum Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the significance of connecting students with local employers, stating that the event “demonstrates the importance of bridging the gap between education and the workforce.” Matz explained, “It not only opens doors for students to discover career options, but also gives businesses the chance to engage with the next generation of talent. We’re proud to be a part of an initiative that fosters growth in our community.”
The success of this year’s JA Inspire event marks another significant milestone in MVESC’s ongoing efforts to promote career readiness among local students. By bringing together businesses, educators, and students, the event highlights the critical role of workforce development in shaping the future of the region.
MVESC Governing Board to Hold October Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular October meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, October 7, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center Recognized by Ohio School Boards Association for Outstanding New Program
From left to right: Ohio Valley Educational Service Center’s Richard Hall, Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center’s Homer Weekley, Stephen Michel and Eastin Lewellen.
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) has been honored with the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) Southeast Region’s Outstanding New Program or Innovation Award for its Driver Education program. This recognition highlights MVESC’s commitment to creating innovative, student-centered educational solutions.
The award-winning Driver Education program was born from an informal conversation among superintendents and evolved into a comprehensive, statewide initiative. In collaboration with the Ohio Valley Educational Service Center (OVESC), MVESC established the Muskingum Ohio Valley Educational Service Center Driving School (MOV ESC Driving School). The program offers high-quality, safety-focused driving instruction to students throughout Ohio.
MVESC Superintendent Lori Snyder-Lowe expressed her pride in the program’s success and its impact on students across the state. “We are incredibly proud of the MVESC Driver Education program and the MOV ESC Driving School and the positive effect it’s having on Ohio’s students,” said Snyder-Lowe. “As the first program of its kind in the state, it is truly deserving of this recognition from the OSBA Southeast Region,” Snyder-Lowe added.
Since its inception, the MOV ESC Driving School has partnered with 30 districts across Ohio, providing driver education certification to over 1,600 students. The program’s success is driven by a highly skilled team, including Ohio Valley’s Richard Hall and MVESC’s Director of Workforce Eastin Lewellen, along with Homer Weekley and Stephen Michel. Together, their expertise and dedication ensure top-quality instruction for Ohio’s young drivers.
The OSBA Southeast Region’s awardees were selected by the region’s Executive Committee and will be honored at the Fall Conference on Thursday, September 26, at Logan High School. Each award recipient will be featured in the program and will receive a certificate from OSBA, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to education.
MVESC Governing Board to Hold September Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular September meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, September 9, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Heart to Heart School, 2929 Maysville Pike, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
Muskingum County Student Wins International Oratory Competition
Olivia Hilty from Franklin Local Schools holding her first place award in the 12–13 age group for the Fraternal Order of Eagles (F. O. E.) God, Flag & Country Oratory Program. Pictured from left to right: Chad Wilson (stepdad), Sara Wilson (mom), Olivia Hilty, and Danny Hilty (dad).
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – A Franklin Local student recently earned first place among 12 and 13-year-olds nationally in the God, Flag & Country Oratory Program, sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.) and coordinated locally by the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) Gifted Education Program. Olivia Hilty competed in the finals during the 2024 F.O.E. International Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana.
“To win this award twice is just an amazing accomplishment! We could not be more proud of Olivia!” said Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, MVESC. “This honor once again showcases Olivia’s skills, and the outstanding programming opportunities at MVESC. We send our heartfelt Congratulations to Olivia for this amazing achievement!”, she added.
Hilty, the daughter of Danny Hilty, and Sara and Chad Wilson, started her journey toward the national competition by winning the local God, Flag & Country event sponsored by Zanesville Aerie Number 302, Fraternal Order of Eagles. Following the local event, Hilty won top honors in the regional and statewide competitions to advance to the national finals. Last year, Hilty earned first place in the 10–11 age group at the national God, Flag & Country competition held in Reno, Nevada.
“We are privileged to collaborate with our local districts, their teachers, and students through this competition,” stated Colette Smith, Director of Gifted Education at MVESC. “Additionally, it is always a joy to partner with the F.O.E. Aerie Number 302 for the local event,” added Smith.
According to the Fraternal Order of Eagles website, the God, Flag & Country Oratory Program has been held since 1967 and is open to children ages 10 to 15. More information about the program is available online at www.foe.com.
MVESC Governing Board to Hold August Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular August meeting at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 14, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
MVESC Governing Board to Hold July Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular July meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, July 8, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
LEGAL NOTICE Classroom Renovations- Maysville Center
Maysville Center Project:
The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center is seeking bids from eligible bidders for the renovation of classroom space at the Maysville Center. The project is for the renovation of the Maysville Center, 2929 Maysville Pike, Zanesville, Ohio 43701. Renovations include installation of cubicles, doors, drywall, millwork, and sound insulation as well as completing rough and finish of carpentry throughout, and painting of walls, doors, and ceiling.
Walk-Through: June 28, 2024, 10:00 A.M., 2929 Maysville Pike, Zanesville, Ohio 43701. Bid documents and specifications will be available at the walk-through.
This notice shall also be published at the following location on the District’s website, where additional information regarding the project may be accessed here.
Sealed bids will be received by the Office of the Treasurer, 205 North Seventh Street, Zanesville, OH, 43701, by 12:00 p.m. on July 8, 2024, according to the plans and/or specifications included in the Instructions to Bidders. Bids must be separate for labor and materials including a separate bid for site preparation.
Bid Documents obtained by a bidder from any other source for this project do not make the bidder a plan holder of record and will make the bid from the bidder nonresponsive. The responsibility for timely and appropriate bid submission rests solely with each bidder. Sealed bids submitted by mail must be certified or registered with return receipt requested and properly sealed and clearly marked on the outside with the statement: Maysville Center Project.
Sealed bids received after the above appointed date and time will not be accepted.
Each bid shall be accompanied by a Bid Bond payable to the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center Governing Board, drawn on a solvent bank or insurance company licensed to do business in the State of Ohio, for the full amount of the sealed bid or a certified check for 10% of bid amount per 153.54 of the Ohio Revised Code, as a guarantee that if the bid is accepted a contract will be entered into and performed. Bid Bonds accompanying rejected bids will be returned upon award of the contract. No Bidder may withdraw his/her bid for a period of sixty (60) days from the date of the opening of the sealed proposals. MVESC reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Subject to the right of MVESC to reject any or all bids, the Board will award the contract for the work to the bidder who is determined to be responsible and who submits the lowest responsible bid in accordance with applicable law and Board Policy.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center
By: Ms. Danielle Devoll, Treasurer
MVESC Governing Board to Hold June Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular June meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 10, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center Governing Board Members Honored by Ohio School Boards Association for Service
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) is pleased to announce the recognition of three of its esteemed Governing Board Members by the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) for their outstanding contributions to education and governance. The prestigious awards were presented during the OSBA meeting on Tuesday, March 26, in Crooksville.
The event, dedicated to addressing current challenges and promoting excellence in education, provided an ideal platform to honor the unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership exemplified by the following MVESC Governing Board Members:
Mr. Larry Good was celebrated for his remarkable 45 years of unwavering commitment, representing Muskingum County with distinction.
Mrs. Sharon Slowter was acknowledged for her 15 years of devoted service, representing Morgan County, and bringing valuable experience as a former Morgan Local Schools Board Member.
Mr. Ed Penrod received the prestigious STAR award for his exemplary contributions. The STAR award highlights a school board member’s commitment and service to Ohio’s students. Four awards comprise the program: Service, Training, Aptitude, and Recognition. As the Hocking County representative, Mr. Penrod’s extensive background as a former Board Member of Logan-Hocking Local Schools and Tri-County Career Center underscores his dedication to educational excellence.
MVESC Superintendent Lori Snyder-Lowe expressed pride in the recognition bestowed upon the MVESC Governing Board Members, stating, “We are proud of our Board Members for their well-deserved recognition from the Ohio School Boards Association. Their dedication to the students, districts, and the MVESC is truly inspiring.”
The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center extends profound congratulations to Mr. Good, Mr. Penrod, and Mrs. Slowter for their outstanding achievements. Additionally, MVESC commends the Ohio School Boards Association for its continued support in recognizing excellence in school leadership.
MVESC Governing Board to Hold May Meeting
The Muskingum Valley ESC Governing Board will hold its regular May meeting at 7:00 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2024. The meeting will be held at the MVESC Zanesville office, 205 N. Seventh Street, Zanesville, and is open to the public.
Contact Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, at 740-452-4518 for more information.
MVESC’s Colette Smith named Personal Finance Educator of the Year
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Colette Smith, Director of Gifted Education at the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC), has been recognized with the 2024 Personal Finance Educator of the Year Award. The prestigious accolade was presented at the Alpaugh Family Economics Center’s 2024 Annual Awards Event on April 15, held at the Bally Sports Club at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.
The event was a grand affair, featuring a keynote speech from Cincinnati Reds President Phil Castellini and President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall. The occasion celebrated educators and their outstanding contributions to personal finance education.
Ms. Smith expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying, “The Stock Market game is very impactful. Students get to see career opportunities that are available in the world of finance, and this allows them to understand finance and see their potential.”
Superintendent Lori Snyder-Lowe praised Colette’s innovative approach to teaching, stating, “Colette has taken personal finance and run with it. She is great at thinking outside of the box, helping students expand their horizons, and exploring possibilities for their future; which are all great attributes of someone teaching gifted.”
The Personal Finance Educator of the Year Award recognizes educators who excel in teaching personal finance concepts and inspire students to make informed financial decisions. Colette Smith’s commitment to educating students about finance and helping them discover their potential in the financial world has made her a standout candidate for this esteemed award.
Lori Snyder-Lowe Announces Retirement as MVESC Superintendent; Governing Board Hires Monte Bainter as Successor
Zanesville, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) Governing Board voted Tuesday, April 9, to hire Monte Bainter as the MVESC’s next superintendent, effective January 1, 2025. He will replace Lori Snyder-Lowe, who announced her retirement but will continue in her current role as superintendent through December 31, 2024. Snyder-Lowe began her service as MVESC superintendent August 1, 2019. Prior to joining the MVESC, Snyder-Lowe was superintendent at Morgan Local School District.
“We are grateful for the new programs and initiatives Lori has brought to the organization, expanding our service line beyond traditional educational services, to include daycare, telehealth, driver education, workforce development, and adult special needs services, to name a few,” said Brian Hill, President, MVESC Governing Board. “Although we will miss her leadership, we are excited to work with Monte to continue these expanded services and find more ways to keep the MVESC at the forefront of educational support services in our region,” Hill added.
Bainter currently serves as superintendent of Logan-Hocking Local School District and has been in his current role since August 2016. Logan-Hocking is in southeast Ohio, in Hocking County, and the district is a member of the MVESC. The district is home to approximately 4,000 students. Prior to assuming his role at Logan-Hocking, Bainter was Superintendent for 11 years at Maysville Local Schools in Muskingum County.
“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 Board of the MVESC for having the confidence in me to lead such a wonderful organization,” said Monte Bainter.
“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,” said Hill.
MVESC and OhioMeansJobs hosting Junior Achievement Inspire Event to Empower Area Students with Career Exploration
Zanesville, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) is excited to announce a collaborative effort between OhioMeansJobs Muskingum County branch and the Zanesville Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce to present the Junior Achievement Inspire (JA Inspire) event. Scheduled for Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, the event will take place at the Muskingum County Fairgrounds located at 1300 Pershing Road, Zanesville, Ohio 43701.
JA Inspire is a dynamic career-pathway program tailored for 8th to 11th-grade students, designed to ignite their passion and guide them towards promising career opportunities. With a focus on hands-on learning and engagement, the program is uniquely positioned to offer invaluable insights into various industries, job roles, and education pathways, thereby assisting students in charting their high school coursework effectively.
“We are thrilled to bring JA Inspire to the students of our region, providing them with a platform to explore diverse career options and interact with industry professionals,” said Lori Snyder-Lowe, Superintendent, MVESC. “By fostering early exposure and hands-on experiences, we aim to empower students to make informed decisions about their future education and career pathways,” Snyder-Lowe added.
“OhioMeansJobs Muskingum County is pleased to support this event, providing valuable career exploration for local students,” said Julie Metzger, Workforce Administrator, OhioMeansJobs Muskingum County branch.
Through the collaborative efforts of MVESC, OhioMeansJobs Muskingum County branch, Zanesville Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses, JA Inspire promises to insight and equip the next generation of workforce leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen careers.