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Oakwood High School students recently traveled to Columbus to compete in the Ohio Model United Nations (OMUN). This three-day event is a global education simulation that allows students to step into the shoes of world leaders. Acting as delegates for different countries, they write, present, and debate solutions to real-world problems, just like the actual United Nations.

Oakwood sent eight teams representing China, Chile, Iran, Libya, Lesotho, Myanmar, the Netherlands, and Tuvalu. Facing stiff competition from 161 teams and over 1,000 delegates, our students achieved remarkable success across multiple categories.

Four of our nations—China, Myanmar, the Netherlands, and Tuvalu—were selected to present their resolutions at the General Assembly, an honor given to only 23 teams statewide.

The accolades continued with several prestigious awards:

• Team China won 1st place for their talent performance.
• Team Myanmar earned the Outstanding Cultural Award, one of only three awarded.
• Team Tuvalu received the Outstanding Resolution Award.
• Amelia Butler (China) took 2nd place in the Current Events contest.
• Lucy Orsello (China) was named one of only 10 Outstanding Delegates.

Additionally, Cali Biteau and Kiera Lindsey were elected as state officers for the 2026 school year, with Kiera serving as Assistant Secretary General. We congratulate all on their outstanding performance at the conference.

January is School Board Appreciation Month, a moment to shine a light on the five dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to serve the Oakwood City Schools community.

Our board members create a vital link between our community and the classroom. The role involves listening to families, understanding complex challenges, and making decisions that shape the future of our schools. They step forward to lead not for praise, but to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

"Serving on a school board is not a task for the faint of heart," said Superintendent Dr. Neil Gupta. "It requires countless hours of preparation, thoughtful decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to the success of every student in our district. Each member of this board willingly dedicates their time and energy because they believe in the transformative power of education."

This team serves as the foundation of our school community. They face challenges with courage and celebrate our successes with pride. Most importantly, they keep the well-being of our students and staff at the center of their work every single day.

"They are the heart behind the mission of Oakwood City Schools, and we are deeply fortunate to have them leading the way," Dr. Gupta added.

Please join us in saying thank you to our Board of Education members for their time, their heart, and their vision:

• Dr. Laura Middleton, board president (board member since 2022)
• Lauren Kawai, board vice president (board member since 2022)
• John Wilson (board member since 2019)
• Debbie DiLorenzo (board member since 2023)
• Nathan Reiter Garcia (board member since 2024)

As part of our ongoing review of safety practices, the district has implemented a change to the traffic pattern around Harman School. In collaboration with the Oakwood Safety Department, this adjustment mirrors measures taken at Smith Elementary and is designed to improve safety for students and staff.

Please be aware of the following rules now in effect at the intersection of Harman Avenue and Dixon Avenue:

• Between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., there are NO TURNS permitted in any direction at this intersection.
• Families planning to drop off along Dixon Avenue must turn onto Dixon from Far Hills Avenue.
• Drivers on Dixon Avenue must continue straight to Oakwood Avenue or Runnymede. Turning onto Harman Avenue is prohibited.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work to ensure our school zones remain safe for everyone.