District leaders bid farewell

(by Megan Edwards, Staff Writer - December 20, 2008)

The Columbus City School district bid farewell to an administrator and board member at its last board of education meeting of the year.

Board of education members recognized Dr. Marvenia Bosley, deputy superintendent and W. Carlton Weddington, board of education member, in front of a full house at a meeting held Dec. 16.

Bosley will end a 31-year career with the district Dec. 31. Weddington will begin a new role as Ohio state representative for the 27th district at the beginning of January.

With family seated in the audience, Bosley listened to board President Terry Boyd read a resolution, honoring her total of 35 years in education and characterizing her as a “champion of public education.”

The resolution attributes Bosley as a key player in assisting the district’s improvement in report card ratings as well as graduation rates.

She received a standing ovation from administrators, family members and board members, and thanked those who have supported her.

“I’d like to thank my family for having patience during the times I was getting work done,” Bosley said. “And the sacrifices that had to be made. My dream has come true.”

Board member W. Shawna Gibbs commended Bosley for her work in the district.

“We will have to look across the world to replace you,” Gibbs said. “That is a testimony to your dedication and energy.”

Superintendent Gene Harris also thanked Bosley.

“You have been extremely important to the district, not to just us but to a lot of individual children, untold children we don’t even know about,” Harris said. “And your commitment has never wavered.”

Evelyn Bell, executive director of the district’s student assistance, intervention and outreach department, will take Bosley’s place until a permanent replacement is hired.

Board members also commended Weddington for his work on the board. Weddington took oath for his seat on the board in January 2006, and since then, has served as a board trustee to the Ohio School Board Association and is president of the OSBA’s Central Region. He also is chairman of the Audit and Accountability Committee. Weddington has worked as a liaison officer for the Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services, manager of the Franklin County Clerk of Courts, legislative aide to Les Wright, Columbus City Council, and caseworker/staff assistant for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee of Houston, Texas.

“It has been a pleasure to serve Columbus City Schools and to be able to work with the board, Superintendent Gene Harris, administration and staff and all of those involved with Columbus City Schools who educate the children,” Weddington said.

Being a member of the board of education, Weddington said, is “not easy,” but he has “learned a lot and will continue to learn.”

“I’ve been battle-tested, battle-scarred but not battle-weary,” he added.
 

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