From BOWLING GREEN CITY SCHOOLS
Bowling Green City Schools is proud to share that Conneaut Elementary is under consideration for the 2026 Hall of Fame School Award from the Ohio Association of Elementary School Administrators (OAESA). Each year, since 1984, OAESA has honored elementary and middle schools across Ohio that “go above and beyond” in meeting the needs of students through exemplary programs, strong instructions, and a positive, student-centered learning environment.
Schools nominated for this recognition demonstrate excellence across different areas, including student achievement, instructional systems, school improvement efforts, and community engagement. These schools are characterized by an atmosphere of growth, achievement, pride, and a dedication to excellence on the part of staff and students.
To move forward in the process, nominated schools must submit a comprehensive documentation packet highlighting their programs, culture, and impact. After the packet review, finalist schools will have a school observation visit by OAESA committee members. Award recipients will be announced in April 2026.
For Principal Alyssa Karaffa, the consideration is a meaningful tribute to the work happening every day at Conneaut.
“Being nominated for the OAESA Hall of Fame building award reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and families. Our school is committed to academic excellence, shown through steady growth in student achievement and state measures. With a focus on data-driven instruction, strong and intentional core teaching, targeted interventions, and a positive, student-centered culture, I’m honored and proud to lead a community where excellence and care go hand-in-hand.”
The nomination comes after years of achievement at Conneaut Elementary. The school earned a 5-star rating on the Ohio School Report Card for the second consecutive year – a testament to its consistent excellence in teaching, learning, and growth. Prior to that, Conneaut received the Momentum Award, recognizing schools for exceeding academic expectations.
The school has also demonstrated commitment to positive school culture through Ohio’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. After earning the PBIS Bronze Award in 2024, Conneaut advanced to the PBIS Silver Award in 2025 – its first time achieving this level.
In addition to the school-level recognition, Karaffa is also a candidate for the OAESA 2026 Principal of the Year Award. This honor is bestowed upon administrators who have made exceptional contributions to their schools and communities, exceeding the expectations of their role.
Karaffa stated, “I prioritize the needs of students and staff, foster meaningful collaboration, and uphold high expectations for teaching, learning, and professional growth. Through this approach, I strive to create a school community where trust, shared vision, and a commitment to excellence guide every decision we make. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and to lead our school community.”
Together, these recognitions highlight Conneaut Elementary’s strengths, a culture grounded in growth, pride, and excellence; a staff dedicated to supporting every child; and a community that believes in the power of education.
