PIQUA, OH - May 6, 2026
The Miami County Educational Service Center gathered yesterday at A Learning Place in Piqua for its annual End of Year Celebration. The event focused on honoring the dedication and commitment of the Miami Co. ESC staff to student success throughout the county.
The ceremony was an opportunity to recognize the profound impact of our Intervention Specialists, Paraprofessionals, OT / Speech Therapists, and all support staff on the children they serve. Special recognition was given to the partners at MCJFS who have formed a valuable and productive working relationship with the Miami Co. ESC to proactively serve families in need. To kick off staff awards, the ESC honored staff members who will be transitioning to retirement following this school year, expressing gratitude for their many years of dedicated service.
In addition to celebrating the retirees, the Miami County ESC presented 'Years of Service' awards to ESC veterans reaching significant career milestones. Those honored were individuals with 5, 10, 15, 20, and even a few 25-year veterans. Employees reaching these milestones highlight the enduring stability, camaraderie, and passion within the Miami County ESC.
Two important farewells also took place, as current Superintendent Dave Larson honored and thanked Melinda Hoffert, Director of HR, for her 20+ years of service and instrumental shaping of the organization as she plans to relocate to Washington State. Future Superintendent, Bethany Whidden, took a moment to thank and honor Dave Larson as he will be taking the Deputy Director position at OESCA (Ohio ESC Association) to make an impact at a statewide level.
To conclude the event, the Miami County ESC recognized all 'Employee of the Year' nominees shortly before announcing the two winners. The nominees and award recipients represent the highest standards of service and dedication. The two winners for this year were Heather Hench, Paraprofessional, and Heather Lorenzo, Director of Preschool. Each of these individuals has had a massive positive impact on their departments and people they reach every single day.
The Miami County ESC would like to thank all who attended and helped honor those who deserve recognition. A special thanks to A Learning Place for hosting the event and helping it come together.
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The Miami County Educational Service Center (ESC) is a regional educational agency that provides collaborative support and specialized services to nine partner school districts, serving over 15,000 students. Its core mission is to meet the unique needs of students and educators through programs such as special education, preschool services, occupational therapy, and professional development opportunities.