FREMONT - The Vanguard-Sentinel Career & Technology Board accepted the resignations of Cynthia Hines, adult workforce development GED/IMS specialist, with 24 years of service, and of Gerald Steinmetz, Sentinel CTC maintenance custodian with 15 years of service, effective Dec. 31.
After the regular meeting Thursday evening, Superintendent Greg Edinger and the board hosted a special ceremony to dedicate the new facility in Fremont, held in conjunction with a public open house. The ceremony was broadcast throughout the facility using new technology equipment.
John Rizzardi, VTC instructor since 1968, spoke about the changes in technology and language describing the old and new, with the focus remaining the same, to provide an "advanced learning experience for all."
A YouTube speech was given by Nancy Sattler, adjunct professor and dean emerita, Terra Community College, who offered congratulations to V-S staff, students, parents and the community. Sattler said she was "amazed at the changes" made to meet the needs for the 21st century.
Student Ambassador Josh Evans, a senior from Tiffin Columbian and criminal justice student, shared his perspective of the new changes, saying the "technology is fantastic" and the "opportunity to grow and learn" is even better. He thanked the school for providing a "great learning, everlasting impact" for himself and "hopes other students get to get what I have."
Mark King, criminal justice instructor, spoke regarding the teaching perspective and transition. He concurred the "building and technology are wonderful for the 21st century" with updated equipment and rooms designed for learning. King said the staff is "a team" and excited for the students and providing the best opportunity for each of them.
Edinger talked about the timeline, from 1968 when Vanguard Career Center was opened in Fremont, 1985 when Sentinel Career Center opened, to the 1995 Tech Center opening in Fremont, concluding with the 2009-2012 plans, construction, remodeling done at the facilities in Tiffin and Fremont. He showed the updates to the logo and name of the school to Vanguard-Sentinel Career & Technology Centers. Edinger noted the Ohio School Facilities Commission contributed $18.5 million and V-S paid $11.5 million using the cash reserves built up, so a local levy was not needed.
Board President Don Ellis thanked former Treasurer Jay Valasek and Superintendent Bob Brickner for their foresight to maintain the permanent improvement fund over the past 15 years and to Edinger for his work with the OSFC.
An open house was held Oct. 9 for the Sentinel facility in Tiffin.
The next regular meeting is 6:30 p.m. Nov. 15 at the Tiffin V-S facility.
