The Clermont County Educational Service Center hosted the first annual Celebration of Excellence in Education Awards, an event created to honor teachers, support staff and students from Clermont County’s nine public school districts, two career centers, the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, and the Clermont County Educational Service Center.
Award winners from Bethel-Tate were: Katie Jones, Secretary at Bethel-Tate Middle School; Tanya Darnell, 6th Grade Intervention Specialist at Bethel-Tate Middle School; and Lily Hathcock, senior at Bethel-Tate High School.
About 200 people attended the celebration held April 22, 2025, at Norlyn Manor in Batavia. Multiple winners were awarded in each of three categories. The theme for the event was “Clermont County - foundation is strong, and our future is bright.”
Read more about each of the award winners from Bethel-Tate Schools.
Katie Jones, a secretary for seven years at BTMS, was presented an Excellence in Educational Support Award.
Katie exemplifies excellence by supporting the functions of the school district through her dedication, efficiency, and commitment to creating a well-organized and welcoming school environment. She manages student records and school documentation and assists teachers and administrators with scheduling, communication, and resource coordination. She serves as the first point of contact for parents, students, and visitors, providing clear information and an inviting atmosphere. She can juggle administrative duties, event coordination, and school-related tasks with professionalism and care. She goes above and beyond every day, ensuring that students, staff, and parents feel supported and welcomed. What makes Katie special is her unwavering commitment to the school community. She is not just a secretary—she is a problem-solver, a friendly face, and a key support system for everyone who walks through the doors. She does it all with a smile and a positive attitude.
Tanya Darnell, 6th Grade BTMS Intervention Specialist with 22 years of teaching experience, was presented with an Excellence in Education Award.
Tanya tailors her teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of each student. She fosters trust and confidence in her students, creating a safe and encouraging learning environment. Her kindness and understanding help students overcome challenges, both academically and personally.
Tanya goes above and beyond her role as an intervention specialist by actively contributing to the school community outside the classroom. She has previously coached at BTMS and regularly attends sporting events, demonstrating her dedication to student success beyond academics. She cares about them as individuals, not just as learners. Students feel valued, inspired, and supported in all aspects of their school experience.
Bethel-Tate High School Senior Lily Hancock was presented with The Future is Bright–Franklin B. Walter Scholars
Lily plans to major in Diagnostic Medical Sonography in college so that she can impact and improve the lives of others while providing herself with long-term fulfillment and pride.
The Franklin B Walter All Scholastic Award Program was established by the Ohio Educational Service Center Association to promote and recognize outstanding academic achievement. Criteria for the awards are based on GPA, class rank, rigor, letters of recommendations, extracurricular activities, and community service. Each school district in Clermont County was invited to nominate one student for the award.