Being the GHHS Attendance Secretary requires so many different approaches that are completely different dependent on the situation. Not only is Mrs. Berlin the Attendance Secretary for the high school, she is also the entry point for all visitors to our district offices and administrators. Mrs. Berlin is the first person to greet visitors when they come into our building and the last person they see when they leave. She balances it all incredibly well!
The most endearing and valuable aspect of Mrs. Berlin is who she is as a person. She cares deeply about kids, and they flat out love, and respect, her. She would have 25 office aides in her office every period if there was room. Yet, she often has to be tough with students who are trying to push limits and/or get away with being tardy or skipping class while at the same time project a warm and welcoming demeanor for outside visitors and staff. In this role, you are both the warden and the welcoming committee to our district. Yet, I am always reminded of how lucky we are to have her when students come to her in a moment that they need a trusted adult.
Mrs. Berlin lives and works with a “relationships above everything” approach, and she without question makes Grandview Heights Schools better every single day. Thank you in advance for your utmost consideration of this nomination.
Regarding Kukura, his nominator stated: Jack Kukura has been a tireless advocate for Grandview Heights Schools over the past decade. His dedication and impact areas have been varied and incredibly valuable to the Grandview Heights Schools. His efforts continue to serve students, staff, and the community.
Mr. Kukura co-chaired the committee for the 2010 school levy which passed with an amazing 65% of the vote. Mr. Kukura has served as President of the Grandview Heights / Marble Cliff Education Foundation Board, a non-profit organization that funds on average $70,000/year in grants to support the schools and education in the community. During his six-year tenure he served on the Grant, Scholarship and Finance committees, co-chaired the Foundation's annual Gala fundraiser, and, in 2013, helped establish a generous scholarship program funded by the Mirolo family which benefits four to five Grandview Heights High School graduates each year. While serving as a member of the Marble Cliff Village Council, he was the liaison and presenter of the Falco Scholarships to GHHS graduating seniors.
Mr. Kukura’s creative thinking and initiative has also established an annual fun run called “The Marble Cliff Mile” along the streets of the Village of Marble Cliff to benefit the Grandview Heights Cross Country Team.
Over the past three years, our school district has conducted an intensive facility assessment and planning process. Mr. Kukura was an integral part of the Financial Advisory Committee and provide great leadership and insight. He also co-presented the committee's recommendation to the superintendent at an open community meeting.
Mr. Kukura’s enthusiasm, positive attitude, and selfless gifts of time and energy has proven him to be a champion for the students in the Grandview Heights / Marble Cliff community. He is without a doubt a friend of public education and we ask for your utmost consideration of his nomination.
Pictured at the celebration (from left): Board of Education Member Eric Bode; Grandview Heights High School Principal Rob Brown; Curt Berlin; Cheri Berlin; Jack Kukura; Margaret Kukura; Board of Education Member Debbie Brannan; and Board of Education President Jesse Truett.