Skip To Main Content

2026 End-of-Year Reception Recognizes District Employees

A group of Fairview Park City Schools staff members poses in front of a Fairview Warriors backdrop during an end-of-year recognition event. Several staff members smile toward the camera, and two hold recognition medals while standing with colleagues for a group photo.

The Fairview Park City School District recognized employees for their dedication, service, and contributions to students during its annual End-of-Year Service Awards Breakfast on June 4, 2026, at Fairview High School.

The event celebrated staff members reaching service milestones, recognized the district's Employee and Educator of the Year, and honored a special statewide award recipient. Fairview Park Board of Education members, current staff, and retired employees joined together to reflect on another successful school year and recognize the individuals who help make a difference in the lives of students each day.

"Every member of this organization plays an important role in supporting, challenging, and caring for the children and families we serve," Superintendent Keith Ahearn said during the ceremony.


A family group poses in front of a Fairview Warriors backdrop. An older woman holding a bouquet of flowers stands with family members, including two adults, two young children. The group smiles for a photo during a Fairview Park City Schools recognition event.

Employee of the Year - Dena Harriger:

The 2026 Employee of the Year Award was presented to Early Education Center custodian Dena Harriger.

Colleagues described Harriger as positive, dependable, detail-oriented, and hardworking. Throughout the nomination process, staff members repeatedly highlighted the care and pride she brings to her work each day.

One nominator wrote that Harriger "always goes above and beyond her job description" and praised her commitment to helping maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for students and staff.

Another noted that she "makes such a positive impact on our school culture every single day," adding that she helps create an environment that feels "cared for, welcoming, and organized for both staff and students."

Nominators also recognized Harriger's willingness to take initiative without seeking recognition.

"Everyone in the building knows they can count on her, and she sets a great example through her work ethic and pride in what she does," one colleague wrote.

Another staff member described her as "a light that we take for granted," noting the countless ways she quietly supports students, staff, and classrooms throughout the year.


A family group stands in front of a Fairview Warriors backdrop during a recognition event. The group includes two older adults, three younger adults, and a young child. One person holds a bouquet of flowers while another holds the child. Several family members smile toward the camera.

Educator of the Year - Sarah Ramsey:

The 2026 Educator of the Year Award was presented to Sarah Ramsey, an intervention specialist at Lewis F. Mayer Middle School.

Ramsey was recognized by colleagues for her compassion, collaboration, organization, and dedication to students.

One nominator wrote that Ramsey "exemplifies everything that Teacher of the Year should represent" and praised her ability to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences for students.

Her colleagues specifically highlighted a recent end-of-unit "Shark Tank" project that generated excitement and enthusiasm among students while showcasing Ramsey's creativity and commitment to student learning. Another nominator described Ramsey as "a dedicated Intervention Specialist, incorporating strategies, humor, and knowledge for students in a very challenging situation and age group."

Colleagues also emphasized the care and professionalism Ramsey brings to supporting students with diverse learning needs.

"Although she would never seek the spotlight for herself, her impact on students, families, and colleagues is extraordinary and deeply deserving of recognition," one nominator wrote.

The nomination continued by noting that Ramsey consistently places students at the center of every decision and approaches her work with "exceptional professionalism, compassion, and quiet dedication."


Two staff members stand side by side in front of a Fairview Warriors backdrop, smiling toward the camera. Both wear blue tops and pose during a Fairview Park City Schools recognition event. The backdrop features Fairview Warriors logos and Fairview branding.

Special Recognition - Lori Oxley:

Among the morning's special recognitions was Lori Oxley, who was honored after earning both regional and statewide recognition for her work supporting students with disabilities.

On May 15, Oxley received an Outstanding Educator Achievement Award from the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio and State Support Team Region 3. According to the award criteria, the recognition honors educators who provide "exemplary instructional strategies and creative programming that promote educational results for students with exceptionalities."

Oxley was also named the 2026 recipient of the Franklin B. Walter Outstanding Educator Award. The award recognizes one educator from each of Ohio's 16 State Support Team regions who has made "extraordinary contributions to the education of students with disabilities." She was also recently recognized during a ceremony in Columbus on June 9.


Years of Service Recognitions:

The Fairview Park City School District recognized employees for their dedicated years of service:

  • One year of service: 24
  • Five years of service: 11
  • Ten years of service: 7
  • Fifteen years of service: 4
  • Twenty years of service: 5
  • Twenty-five years of service: 1
  • Thirty years of service: 3
  • Thirty-five years of service: 1
  • Forty years of service: 1