Three Pine Bush staff members were honored Wednesday night at the Mid-Hudson School Study Council Awards for Excellence ceremony.

Eileen Budd, cook manager, received an award for excellence in support staff services. Katie Carson-Decker, school social worker at Pine Bush High School, was honored for excellence in pupil personnel services. Erica Walentin, our current assistant director of special programs who served last year as the interim director of the department, accepted her award for excellence in administration.

 

 

 

Eileen Budd

“Eileen exemplifies the dedication, leadership and innovation that this award seeks to recognize,” said Caitlin Lazarski, the district’s school nutrition director, in her nomination letter to the MHSSC for Ms. Budd. “Her contributions to our school nutrition program have had a profound impact not only on the quality of meals served but also on staff morale and student engagement across the district.

“Eileen Budd is the very definition of a behind-the-scenes hero,” Ms. Lazarski continued. “Her work may often go unnoticed by those outside our school buildings, but the positive impact she has made is undeniable.”

 

Katie Carson-Decker

“Ms. Carson-Decker serves the at-risk student population at our high school. Through her unwavering dedication and compassionate approach, she builds meaningful, lasting relationships that help guide these students toward personal growth, academic achievement and a successful transition into adulthood,” said Terrilyn Cohn, director of special programs at Pine Bush.

“Beyond her direct work with students, Ms. Carson-Decker has made a significant impact on the broader school community,” Ms. Cohn continued. “She revitalized and expanded our district’s food pantry, securing grants and cultivating partnerships with local volunteer organizations. She also engages high school students in service-learning opportunities, organizing and packaging food for distribution as part of their community service requirements.”

 

 

Erica Walentin

“This past year, when faced with a sudden leadership transition, Erica stepped into the role of interim director with grace and confidence,” said Superintendent Joseph Lenz in his nomination letter of Ms. Walentin. “She navigated complex challenges with unwavering focus, demonstrating not only a deep understanding of special programs but also the foresight and composure of a seasoned administrator.

“Erica’s leadership style is marked by collaboration, compassion and clarity,” he continued. “She brings out the best in her colleagues and is always quick to recognize and nurture the strengths of others.”

 

It’s people like Eileen, Katie and Erica that make Pine Bush such a special place to work and learn. We are grateful for all you do for our students and our entire community. You make us Pine Bush proud! Congratulations to all.