SOESC CONNECTION
February 2026 💘
February Updates, News, and More! 😍
February marks a steady point in the school year—a time when the work is well underway and the impact of collaboration is easy to see across the SOESC region. Each day brings opportunities to support, strengthen, and move forward together.
The dedication and care you bring to students, families, and educators continues to shape strong schools and communities. That commitment is felt throughout our region and remains at the heart of everything we do.
We’re grateful for the partnerships that make this work possible and for the professionalism you bring to every interaction. As winter continues, we remain focused on supporting you and the important work happening across southern Ohio.
Thank you for staying connected with our organization through The SOESC Connection. We hope this month brings continued momentum, meaningful progress, and moments of encouragement along the way. 💕🌹
#Proud2BeSOESC
🌟 January MVP of the Month: Dr. Mike Boone 🌟
We are proud to recognize Mike Boone as our January MVP of the Month! Nominators shared countless examples of Mike’s dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to students and school teams across our region.
Mike truly embodies all three SOESC principles. As a Champion for Children, he consistently puts student safety and dignity first—securing critical mobility equipment, advocating with vendors, and creatively problem-solving on the spot so students can fully access their school day. His innovative approach ensures barriers never stand in the way of learning.
As an Ambassador of the ESC, Mike is deeply respected in the buildings he serves. Known affectionately as “Mr. Mike,” he builds meaningful relationships with students and staff, bringing trust, positivity, and pride to every school community.
Mike also exemplifies Be Well through his kindness and joy. He checks in on coworkers, spreads laughter, and creates a welcoming environment wherever he goes. Students naturally gravitate toward him because they feel safe, valued, and cared for.
Mike, thank you for the heart, ingenuity, and quiet leadership you bring to SOESC every day. We are incredibly grateful for the difference you make for our students, staff, and communities. 💙
👏 Who will be next? Help us continue celebrating the incredible work happening across SOESC by nominating a colleague for our next MVP of the Month.
🗳 Nominations are open now through February 28th, 2026: https://bit.ly/SOESCMVP
LPDC Services Now Available to Non-Traditional Educators
The Southern Ohio ESC, in partnership with the Clinton, Fayette, and Highland County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, is pleased to expand access to our shared Local Professional Development Committee (LPDC).
Through provisions outlined in Ohio HB 435, SOESC’s LPDC is now open to non-traditional educators—including licensed or certificated professionals who are not currently employed by a school district or an entity with its own LPDC. This allows eligible individuals to have coursework, continuing education units, or other professional learning activities reviewed for license renewal.
This expanded service supports educators working in a variety of roles and settings while maintaining the same standards and review process required by the Ohio State Board of Education.
To learn more about eligibility and how to get started, visit:
👉 https://www.soesc.org/LPDC.aspx
For any questions about the SOESC LPDC, please contact:
Debbie Mickey, LPDC Chairperson
dmickey@sst14.org
We're Hiring! 📣
For more information regarding hiring please contact Assistant Superintendent, Casey Enochs at cenochs@soesc.org | 937-382-6921 x 1039
SOESC Governing Board Meeting Dates
The upcoming SOESC governing board meeting will take place on
February 24th, 2026- 6:30 pm at the Southern Ohio ESC Offices: 3321 Airborne Rd. Wilmington, OH 45177.
For more information on our governing board, please visit soesc.org/GoverningBoard