Article courtest of: David Mazzenga, Tri-County Independent

A fond farewell

At the conclusion of Tuesday's school board meeting meeting, the Board of Directors said goodbye to long-time member John Lowe, whose retirement went into effect at the conclusion of the meeting.

Lowe began his service on May 15, 1979 and was a consistent member of the board for the last four decades.

In that time, Lowe attended over 1,000 meetings, and served with over 27 different board members and five superintendents.

He likewise played an active role in the Pennsylvania School Board Association (PSBA) in his many years of service.

Attending virtually, Nathan G. Mains, PSBA CEO presented Lowe with the Distinguished Service Pin in honor of his long years of service.

“We've only, during my time here, presented this six other times,” said Mains. “And so tonight, I'd like to make you the seventh in PSBA history to receive our Distinguished Service Pin.”

Mains further noted, “Wayne Highlands has come so far over the last 40 years and beyond when you look at the incredible academic programs that continue to thrive, the facilities...and you've been a part of really driving a lot of those changes and improvements.”

The Board likewise showered Lowe with praise and gifts from the district.

Noting that Lowe is a model of having priorities in line and adhering with adamantine dedication to the three principles of God, family and community, WHSD superintendent Gregory Frigoletto said, “This district, for as long as you've been here, wouldn't be this district without the work you put into it. And that is not debatable.

“So you should be very proud, and we are, that you have been a part of this district for as long as you have been, and have really been instrumental in any success that we've had.”

Board President George Korb called attention to the quality of relationships Lowe built with fellow board members, administration, community members and students in his tenure. He said, “You've been a top-notch board member. We're proud to say you've been a board member here...Thank you for your service.”

The Wayne Highlands Middle School presented Lowe with a plaque, laser-engraved by eight-grade tech ed students with the help of teachers Christopher Piasecki and Ernest Griffis.

The 2020-2021 middle school yearbook will also be dedicated to Lowe.

“It was our honor to go to our committee of teacher leaders to determine that this is more than a deserved honor for yourself,” said middle school principal Dr. Peter Jordan, “We're very appreciative of everything you've done for our school community.”

Honesdale High School presented Lowe with an etched glass from the HHS art department, a small bus representing his work as bus driver, a book of grammar representing his attention to detail in regards to important documentation, and a scrumptious cake, baked by Knash Confections.

“Mr. Lowe, what the high school wants to communicate to you is there are many things that you did as a school board member, but we appreciate all the values that you instilled in all of us just through your humanity...We appreciate that our paths have been able to cross with you and we've been made better people through our interactions with you.”

Lowe humbly accepted his praise, deferring to the teamwork required to run a successful school district.

He graciously thanked his comrades, noting, “It's been a rewarding experience.”

As per regulation, WHSD has 30 days to appoint a replacement to serve the remainder of Lowe's term.

The Board will be accepting applications and letters of interest until December 16. Interviews and appointment will follow later in December.