Chancery Clerk Rachel Montes swears in new school board member Natalie Glorioso at Thursday’s meeting.
Photo by Alexandra Hedrick

Natalie Glorioso and Jeff Jones were sworn in at Thursday night’s Pearl River County School Board meeting.

Glorioso ran unopposed to replace Michelle Boyd, who stepped down after serving on the board for 12 years. This is Jones’ second term as school board president.

Superintendent Alan Lumpkin presented the teachers of the year and administrator of the year after Glorioso and Jones were sworn into office.

“They’re here because they love education. They love the children. It’s definitely not for the salary.” Lumpkin said before presenting the teachers their awards.

Aimee Saucier received teacher of the year at the Lower Elementary school, Joni Miller was teacher of the year for the Upper Elementary school, Tara Poolson was teacher of the year for the middle school, Debra McCormick for the high school and Pamela Arnone received teacher of the year for the Center for Alternative Education.

McCormick also received school district teacher of the year.

Administrator of the year was awarded to Kelli Beech, director of vocational education.

Seventh grade student, Jeffery Cavalier, was also recognized at the board meeting for winning first place for the Veterans of Foreign Wars essay contest, “What does patriotism mean to you?” Cavalier won $100 and will go on to compete nationally.

The board unanimously voted to approve:

— The annual inspection of schools after amending the list to include issues board member Twilia Crabtree found that weren’t included on the original list.

— The budget time line for the 2014-15 school year.