Johnny Byrge, Josh James and Steve Morgan express appreciation

By Charlotte Underwood 

JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF)- Exiting Board of Education members Johnny Byrge, Steve Morgan and Josh James were recognized by the Campbell County School Board and Director of Schools Jennifer Fields at the beginning of Tuesday’s BOE meeting. 

“It is my honor to recognize Johnny Byrge who served on the Campbell County School Board for 24 years,” said Campbell County Director of Schools Jennifer Fields. 

Byrge’s family was in attendance for the recognition.

The Campbell County School Board recognized exiting school board members on Tuesday evening. Among those recognized was long-time school board member Johnny Byrge who resigned recently after 24 years of service to the BOE. Byrge is pictured surrounded by his family.

“This is in appreciation of Johnny Byrge recognizing 24 years of dedicated service on the Campbell County School Board. Thank you for your exemplary service and tireless efforts to improve our schools. Your legacy will continue to inspire us all,” Fields said.

Byrge received his name plate as well.

School Board Member Sharon Ridenour read his recognition letter out loud, saying his commitment to Campbell County Schools, student and the community over these many years have been “exceptional.”

“You have been an advocate for education, always putting the needs of children first. Your guidance, wisdom and unwavering support have helped shape the direction of our schools,” Ridenour said.

Byrge said it had been “an honor and a privilege to serve on the school board and to represent the boys and girls of the county and all of the students. I have served with a lot of board members … I want to thank all the board members I have served with down through the years, and a special thanks to Faye Heatherly, Randy Heatherly and Scott Hill and I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart, and I wish the best for the school system,” Byrge said.

Exiting board of education chair Steve Morgan was recognized at Tuesday’s school board meeting for his eight years of service to the BOE. He is pictured with Director of Schools Jennifer Fields.

Director of Schools Jennifer Fields also recognized BOE Chair Steve Morgan who did not seek reelection and attending his last school board meeting. He was presented with an award of recognition and his nameplate as well.

“This is in grateful appreciation presented to Steve Morgan for your eight years of commitment and contributions as a school board member have helped shape the future of education,” Fields read.

School Board member Lisa Fields read is recognition of thanks.

“During his time on the board he has been an advocate for students, staff and community. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that our schools provide the best possible education and opportunities for all of our children. Your thoughtful leadership and commitment to our school system have made a significant difference and your contributions will be felt for years to come. On behalf of the entire school community, we want to express our deep gratitude for your service and wish you all the best on your endeavors.”

Morgan thanked the board for the recognition, saying it was a “bittersweet” moment for him.

“It’s kind of bittersweet, ya know, it’s kind of like school is out and I’m out the door and you guys have got it. But I have enjoyed my time on this board. I have had some healthy debates with almost everyone on it, but I can leave here and count all of you as my friends…I believe in these eight years we have accomplished a lot and I am proud of that; thank you,” Morgan said.

The Director of Schools also presented a similar recognition to exiting school board member Josh James for his six years of “service and dedication” to the school board.

“Thank you for your leadership and commitment to the schools and the Campbell County Community,” Fields said.

School Board Member Randy Heatherly read James’ recognition dedication.

Exiting School board member Josh James was recognized on Tuesday evening for his six years of service to the Campbell County BOE.

“We would like to recognize and express our sincere thanks to Josh James, who is serving his last meeting tonight after six years of dedicated service to the school board. During your time on the board, you have shown a strong commitment to the improvement of our schools and the success of our students, and your impact will be felt far after tonight’s meeting. Your service and dedication have been invaluable …” Heatherly said.

James said the last “six years had been an absolute blast.”

“Our school system has a ton of momentum; I truly believe that, and we are headed in the right direction with the newly elected board members, I wish you nothing but the best of luck … continue the success,” James said. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-08/14/2024-6AM)

Related