The Ocean City Board of Education honored three retiring employees of the district with heartfelt tributes on Wednesday night prior to a regular meeting.
The board bid farewell to Felicia Nixon, Kathy Zeigenfus and Pat Horvath and wished them well in the next chapters of their lives.
- Felicia Nixon: Nixon came to work for the district as a custodian in June 2004 in preparation for the opening of the new Ocean City High School. Superintendent Kathleen Taylor said former head custodian Bob Gannon “put his best person in charge” of the most public portions of the school. She called Nixon “helpful, gentle, kind and caring.”
Kathy Zeigenfus (left) and Superintendent Kathleen Taylor - Kathy Zeigenfus: “Mrs. Z” was an icon at Ocean City Primary School for 29 years “teaching children to love reading and to care for the environment,” in her own words. Zeigenfus was also remembered for her “Save the Manatees” efforts. She thanked the community in Ocean City. “What a joyous place to live,” she said.
- Pat Horvath: Ocean City’s student assistance counselor for 23 years, Horvath helped students cope with personal and family issues related to addiction, violence and other problems inside and outside the schools. Taylor called Horvath “one of our most treasured resources.” Intermediate School Principal Geoffrey Haines recalled the days in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy when teachers took attendance and realized how many families had been displaced. The district couldn’t locate the families through traditional contact information, but Horvath’s tireless efforts and travels helped find students and return them to classes, Haines said. “It’s heartwarming when you know there’s a district that cares about you,” Horvath said.
Felicia Nixon (left) and Superintendent Kathleen Taylor
Taylor and Cape May County Freeholder Marie Hayes also honored Board of Education members as part of School Board Recognition Month in January.
“First and foremost, our school board looks out for our children,” Taylor said.
School board members devote a lot of time and hold a lot responsibility without pay or benefit, she said.
