Dr. Richard Markwardt Recognized and Honored at School Board Meeting The Beachwood Board of Education honored Dr. Richard Markwardt at its June 8, 2015, meeting by presenting a resolution that recognized his achievements during his 11 years of dedicated service as superintendent of schools. His leadership has resulted in the district enhancing its status as a premier Ohio public school system and consistently ranking among the highest-achieving public schools in Ohio and the nation. In addition to the School Board’s resolution, Dr. Markwardt was presented proclamations from Mayor Merle S. Gorden, State Senator Kenny Yuko and Sunny Simon, Cuyahoga County Council, District 11, all of who commended Dr. Markwardt on his dedication and leadership and wished him well for continued success, good health and a happy, prosperous future. Former and current School Board members then spoke words from the heart. Comments included: Martin Horwitz: You’re literally riding off into the sunset. I don’t think we can say that about many other superintendents. David Ostro: You’ve created quite a legacy. You’re a true gentleman and really do care about what’s best for the kids. Mike Zawatsky: You’ve always been attentive and responsive. It’s the small details that make you a great leader. Josh Mintz: You’ve had a positive effect, not only on the schools, but on the entire community. Steve Rosen: Strong schools begin with strong leadership. Your reputation for leadership and longevity is known at the state level. Mitch Luxenburg: You came in during a transitional time and thrived. The community was lucky to have you here. What you’ve done will be with us for generations to come. Dr. Brian Weiss: One important aspect of your legacy here at Beachwood can be summed up in one word – growth. Personal growth, professional growth – and most importantly, growth of our students in every important way. On behalf of the board, Dr. Weiss continued, saying, “What better to represent this (growth) than the formation of a special area, a garden to recognize a Legacy Society to recognize extraordinary individuals whose legacy to the Beachwood Schools leaves an indelible mark on our buildings, our students, our educators and our community. “Central to this garden, a bench will be installed recognizing you as the individual worthy of being the inaugural member of this elite group.” A plaque, made from the same granite as the bench and inscribed with the following, was then presented to Dr. Markwardt: “With gratitude and appreciation for your dedicated service to our district.” Dr. Markwardt then addressed the filled room, saying, “Beachwood holds many privileges for those of us who are fortunate enough to work here. The community is wonderful; the residents are supportive, the board of education is student-focused, and the staff is talented.” “So now that departure date is here. It arrived a lot faster than I thought it would. However, I leave with the knowledge that the district is the strongest it has ever been and will be led by the person best able to assure its continued rise,” he added. “Thank you.” “Beachwood holds many privileges for those of us who are fortunate enough to work here. The community is wonderful; the residents are supportive, the Board of Education is student-focused, and the staff is talented.” PIictured clockwise from top left: Dr. Richard Markwardt receives proclamations and a resolution from Senator Kenny Yuko; Sunny Simon, Cuyahoga County Council, District 11; Mayor Merle S. Gorden; and School Board members (from left) Michael Zawatsky, Dr. Brian Weiss, Steve Rosen, Josh Mintz and School Board president Mitch Luxenburg. 24 Beachwood Buzz n July 2015