Students from all grade levels stepped forth at a recent Parkland School Board meeting to express gratitude to the school directors for the many opportunities offered them.

Throughout the evening, the three pillars of a Parkland education - academics, arts, and athletics - were personified by young people who explained how these factors enrich their educational experiences.

District Superintendent Richard Sniscak provided opening remarks for this year’s annual school board appreciation night.

“Every year in January, we salute a special group of individuals who help run the schools in our community - the nine elected members of the school board,” Sniscak said.

He said the board members, who are unpaid volunteers, devote an average 20 hours a month to school service, making difficult decisions on behalf of education.

“They vote on multimillion dollar budgets, hire staff, select textbooks, review bus schedules and curriculum, to name a few,” Sniscak explained.

“They are your friends, neighbors, community leaders, parents, and engaged senior citizens.”

High school Principal James Moniz then provided appreciative remarks to the board.

“Through your efforts, you help our students make significant, positive contributions to society,” Moniz said.

Cheerleaders and representatives from volleyball, football and wrestling teams reported their positive experiences in these activities contributed a great deal to their high school years.

Principal of the soon-to-open Veterans Memorial Elementary School Karen Dopera thanked the board for funding Mind-Up, a social-emotional learning program inaugurated recently in the schools.

Elementary school children reported the Mind-Up routine includes lessons about the brain and mindfulness activities.

Orefield Middle School Principal Todd Gombos led the way for a demonstration on the varied arts available to students.

As a string quartet began to play lovely music, students paraded in with art work to show to the board.

Next came two female students attired in gowns from theatrical productions. One of them sang a few lyrics in an enchanting voice.

Employees also were part of the endeavor to thank the school board for its work.

Representatives of the teachers’ union and the support staff union expressed gratitude to the board for providing what they need to do their jobs.

As the program came to an end, Sniscak provided some closing remarks.

“Tonight you could see our kids explain the benefits they have from public education at Parkland. Academics, arts, and athletics are not just words,” Sniscak said. They’re who we are. They are what the community expects of us.”

He concluded with a suggestion for everyone to thank school board members for making the success of students their priority.