DAVE MOSIER/
independent editor
A sense of normality returned somewhat to local high school graduations, as Van Wert and Lincolnview high schools held their first in-person graduation ceremonies since 2019. Last year’s graduations were cancelled as schools closed early because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Graduates at Van Wert (top) and Lincolnview toss their mortarboards to “cap” graduation ceremonies held Sunday the first graduations held since 2019 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
photos by Scott Truxell and Bob Barnes/Van Wert independent
Van Wert graduated 135 seniors and Lincolnview 67 seniors during a year that included a veritable plethora of academic challenges, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
VWCS educators honored at 26th annual banquet
Kirsten Barnhart, DHI Media News Editor Thursday, May 6, 2021 9:05 AM 10 students read letters to educators that had an impact on them during the 26th annual educator s banquet. (DHI Media/Kirsten Barnhart)
VAN WERT – Wednesday evening, students and educators from Van Wert City Schools gathered at Willow Bend Country Club to honor teachers who had a special impact on students and those who will be retiring this school year.
“We look forward to this evening of wonderful tributes to our educators,” said Van Wert City Schools Superintendent Mark Bagley. “Educators past and present with the Van Wert City Schools are recognized and appreciated for what they do to prepare the youth for the journey they are about to take.”
VWCS teacher appreciation banquet again live this year
VWHS senior Elizabeth Rutkowski shares a laugh with her favorite teacher, Jeff Kallas, after reading a humorous anecdote from her time in his classroom during Wednesday’s 26th annual Van Wert City Endowment Fund for Educators’ teacher appreciation banquet.
photos by Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
DAVE MOSIER/
independent editor
For more than a quarter of a century, Van Wert High School seniors have been telling their favorite teachers how much they mean to them, thanks to VWHS grad and former school psychologist Randy Gardner’s wish to create a program dedicated to three teachers who were important to him.