SOESC CONNECTION

There’s something special about May in schools. 🎓

Hallways are filled with countdowns, concerts, field days, award ceremonies, senior celebrations, and those everyday moments that somehow feel bigger this time of year. It’s busy, exciting, a little emotional, and a reminder of just how much can happen in one school year.

Across the region, students are showing how far they’ve come, educators are finishing strong, and school communities are coming together to celebrate growth in all its forms. 📚✨

At the Southern Ohio ESC, we see the dedication behind those moments every day. The early mornings, the problem-solving, the encouragement, and the steady commitment to helping students, staff, and community succeed, it all matters.

As the school year begins to wind down, we’re proud to continue supporting the incredible schools, staff, and leaders who make a difference in the lives of students across southern Ohio. 🌟

#Proud2BeSOESC #SOESCConnection

This month, we are proud to celebrate Jill Polstra as our April MVP of the Month! Nominators highlighted Jill’s adaptability, professionalism, and the incredible support she provides to districts, staff, students, and families across our region.

Jill consistently goes above and beyond, stepping into new districts with little notice and quickly building strong relationships and trust with school personnel and families alike. Her experience in both early childhood education and visual impairments makes her an invaluable resource for providers, specialists, and districts navigating challenges and supporting student success.

In addition to supporting her own caseload with care and expertise, Jill is also mentoring a teacher through the Teacher of Visual Impairments (TVI) certification process this year—demonstrating her commitment not only to students, but also to helping others grow in the field. Her strong problem-solving skills, flexibility, and responsive approach ensure that concerns are addressed promptly, respectfully, and professionally.

Jill, thank you for the dedication, knowledge, and compassion you bring to your work each day. Team SOESC is incredibly fortunate to have you! 😊

👏 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 May 21, 2026: https://bit.ly/SOESCMVP

A time to celebrate the power of connection, encouragement, and support within our schools and communities. Across our region, educators, staff, and families make a difference every day by helping students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. 🌟

As we approach the close of another busy school year, this month serves as an important reminder that positive mental health plays a key role in learning, growth, and overall well-being. Together, we can continue creating school environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive, feel connected, and know they are supported. 🫶🌱

The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has shared additional mental health resources and supports for schools and families, which can be found here: Mental Health Awareness Resources

The Southern Ohio ESC is proud to partner with the Fairfield County ESC to support and promote the Drive to Succeed program, made possible through a grant from the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. Through this grant, our ESC consortium — with Fairfield County ESC serving as fiscal agent — has received funding to provide driver education scholarships for qualifying students and young adults.

Drive to Succeed aims to expand access to driver training for Ohio residents ages 15½ to 20 who may face financial barriers. Eligible participants can receive funding to cover the state-required driver education program, helping them prepare for school-to-work transitions, employment opportunities, college, or trade school pathways.

To be eligible, applicants must:
• Be an Ohio resident
• Be 15½ to 20 years old with a valid Ohio temporary driving permit
• Demonstrate financial need by providing proof of SNAP eligibility within the past 12 months
• If under 18, have a parent/guardian complete an online parent orientation

We encourage districts, school staff, and community partners to share this opportunity with students and families who may benefit.

👉 Learn more or apply: www.faircoesc.org/page/drivetosucceed
📧 Questions: DrivetoSucceed@fairfieldesc.org

For more information regarding hiring please contact Assistant Superintendent, Casey Enochs at cenochs@soesc.org | 937-382-6921 x 1039

The upcoming SOESC governing board meeting will take place on

April 28, 2026- 6:30 pm at the Southern Ohio ESC: 3321 Airborne Rd, Wilmington, OH 45177.

For more information on our governing board, please visit soesc.org/GoverningBoard