UNION — More than a few tears fell as Northmont Board of Education members expressed their appreciation to retiring board member Thomas Walker at his final meeting on Dec. 6.

“I met Thomas Walker 11 years ago and he developed into a trusted board member. I learned so much about giving from Tom … as a friend, a neighbor and by his inspiration,” said Northmont Superintendent Tony Thomas.

“There are some people who walk into our lives, make footprints on our hearts and we are never the same,” Linda Blum, board president, said in part. “You, Tom, are one of those people. Our schools and our community have benefitted from your persistence and dedication, not to mention the courage you have shown.”

“Our two new buildings are testimonial to your talents, energies and the positive contribution you have made to Northmont City Schools. You have shown that when you work with people, everything you do makes a difference. Every one of your contributions to this board have been major; there is no such thing as a small victory,” Blum added.

“You have taught individuals to appreciate their own talents, abilities and uniqueness. You’ve encouraged us to impact the lives of those around us by taking the time to reach out, with understanding, patience and tolerance. In the past 21 years, you’ve challenged us to expand our vision of ourselves. You are truly an exemplary leader in that you’ve deeply touched the heart and mind of us all,” she continued.

Blum also extolled the many manifestations of the word “maturity,” as it applies to the way Walker conducts his life.

Each of the people with Walker at the table shared heartfelt memories of working with him over the years, including board member Chris Pulos, board vice president Jane Woodie, Treasurer Ann Ferraro and Student Representative Jacob Hobbs. (Board member Gerry Espeleta was unable to attend the meeting.)

Board members also thanked Walker’s wife, Rose, for her support of the board as well.

In his report to the board regarding the defeat of the school levy on the November ballot, Thomas reported that cuts made in May have helped the district’s financial situation.

“The five-year forecast shows there’s still a need for new revenue. Cuts will be made through attrition for 2023-24. As always, we will look for prudent spending,” Thomas said.

“In 2024-2025, the recommendation is to go to the ballot with proposed cuts, passed in a resolution in August as we prepare for November,” he said. “Cuts will take effect in 2025-2026 should the levy not pass in November or May.”

Thomas also reported on the third grade state testing results and other activity.

“We received the third-grade English Language Arts State test results this week. The district’s passage rate increased by six percent from last year,” he said. “And the Academic Challenge Team is ranked number one in the state.”

The next meeting of the Northmont Board of Education will be at 6 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 8, at Northmont Middle School, 4810 National Road, Clayton.