Molnar's Community Update

SW1 Derek Barry, who is currently stationed in Iraq and a member of the U.S. Navy Seabees, found a meaningful way to stay connected to his family and support our new Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) program at Marion L. Steele High School. His daughters, Abbie and Ashlyn Barry, are active members of the NNDCC, a program that emphasizes leadership, citizenship, self-reliance, personal discipline, community service, and patriotism. This unique program, sponsored by the United States Navy, is available to students in grades 9-12 and allows them to participate in all four years of high school.

SW1 Barry, who serves as part of the Naval Construction Battalion (NCB) Two Five, has always been someone who seeks ways to give back to his community. In a thoughtful gesture of appreciation, he recently sent a package to his wife, Kelli Barry—a U.S. Army Reserve Veteran—to share with Mr. Mike Edwards, the NNDCC instructor, and the cadets in the program.

Among the items in the package was a flag flown at Camp Merrell, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, on September 11, 2001—a day that remains etched in the hearts and minds of Americans. SW1 Barry gifted the flag as a token of gratitude to Mr. Edwards for his dedication to the NNDCC program and to honor the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the U.S. military. In addition to the flag, SW1 Barry included a piece of wood from his construction site, that he had engraved with the NNDCC logo. As a skilled welder, he also crafted the carrier that holds the flag, adding a personal touch to this meaningful gift.

This thoughtful act of service exemplifies SW1 Barry’s commitment to his family, his country, and his community. We are grateful for his service and for the generous gift to Mr. Edwards and the NNDCC cadets at Marion L. Steele High School.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to SW1 Barry and the Seabees of Naval Construction Battalion Two Five, as well as the U.S. Special Operations Command, Operation Inherent Resolve, for this special contribution to the NNDCC program and for their continued service to our nation. May God bless you, watch over you, and return you safely home.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Regional 2 Teacher of the Year, Kim Haney! This prestigious recognition is a well-deserved tribute to Kim’s exceptional dedication to her students and the Amherst community.

Kim’s commitment to the values that guide our district mission —educating, equipping, and empowering students—shines through in everything she does. She not only provides her students with the knowledge they need to succeed in the medical field but also fosters the confidence and skills they need to excel beyond the classroom. Her efforts align perfectly with our vision of creating A Community of Excellence where every student is given the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Kim was honored at the Ohio Teacher of the Year Ceremony during the Ohio School Board Association’s Capital Conference earlier this week. The ceremony truly highlighted her outstanding contributions to education and her relentless passion for shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.

We are incredibly proud of Kim and grateful for the impact she has on our students and community. Thank you, Kim, for being a shining example of excellence in education. We are fortunate to have you here in Comet Nation!

The 2026 International Educational and Cultural trip has been announced: Peru/Inca Adventure

This amazing trip will take place March 26-April 4, 2026 and is open for all students attending Steele High School during the 2025-2026 school year.

There will be an informational meeting for this trip on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 6:00pm at Steele High School's CLC.

You may also find information online at www.explorica.com/Volzer-5717 or reach out to Mrs. Lisa Volzer, Program Leader, at lisa_volzer@amherstk12.org

As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, let's come together to show our gratitude and support for one another. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings we have and to extend a hand to those who may need a little extra help.

Below, you will find ways to give back to our community during this special time of year. Let's work together to make this season brighter for all.

Thank you for being part of Comet Nation—let’s continue to spread the spirit of giving!

The Amherst Schools - A Community of Excellence

mike_molnar@amherstk12.org

440-988-4406

The mission of the Amherst Schools is to educate, equip, and empower all students to choose their path and make a positive impact in our community and beyond.

Follow me on Twitter @TheCometSuper

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