It seems fitting that each new year starts off with thanks and appreciation in school districts across the country. January is celebrated as School Director Recognition Month.

The Jan. 13 Catasauqua Area School District Board of Education meeting included gifts and presentations for the board members to thank them for all they provide to the students of the district. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christina Lutz-Doemling praised the Catasauqua board members and thanked them for their continued support.

“The role of our board members has never been more challenging,” she noted, adding the board consistently sets the students up for success.

Sheckler Elementary School Principal Dr. Robert Kucharczuk introduced a video featuring representatives from each grade sharing their appreciation. The students thanked the board members for allowing them to have good teachers and supplies and for their time and effort.

“Thank you for the stuff you provide to help us learn,” one of the students said.

Board members were also gifted with pieces of homemade lemon ricotta cake with blueberries, made by third-grade teacher Laura Kotran.

Catasauqua Middle School Principal Patrick McNulty thanked the board and noted they were gifted bags with tokens and treats from each grade. There was also a poster made by eighth grade, a little booklet from seventh grade and a video from fifth grade.

Catasauqua High School Principal David Todd noted this is “one of the most professional, genuine and courteous boards” he’s ever worked with. He noted there were also little goody bags for the board members.

Student representative Dante Hatcher-Wilson said the students appreciate everything the board does for them.

The board also received little gifts from Lois Reed and the students in the Catasauqua Community Cares Program.

Additionally, the nursing staff and Dan Kotran, on behalf of the technology team, shared their appreciation as well.

Lutz-Doemling lauded the board members’ ability to “truly work as a team” and noted they are always respectful in their dialogues and discussions, even when they disagree. She thanked them for always putting the benefit of the students first.

Melissa Inselmann, director of curriculum and assessment, thanked the board for the time and care they put into their decisions.

“Thank you for the leadership you provide to the district,” she said.

Assistant to the Superintendent Eric Dauberman said he appreciates all the time they put in to support the district. He also joked he wouldn’t want their jobs.

“We truly appreciate your input and support,” Business Manager Lindsey Wallace said.

The board members thanked everyone for their praise and gifts.

Board member Shawn McGinley said the students, staff, administration and community make their job easy.

Board Secretary Jason Bashaw said he was humbled by all the praise.

“This is a fantastic place to be,” he said of the district.