The Van Wert County Courthouse

Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025

Bus driver, students recognized

Lincolnview Elementary recognized the bus driver and several students that reacted promptly and appropriately during the bus fire that occurred January 27. Superintendent Fries, Principal Stemen, and Transportation Director Brenda Eickholt praised the way bus driver Margie Knot and the students handled the emergency situation by following safety procedures and staying calm. The importance of why we have various safety drills was highlighted as proving to be effective in real emergencies. The students pictured received certificates for their assistance during the emergency (absent from photo are Tia Tate and bus driver Margie Knot). Front row, from left: Haden Boroff, Katelyn Beair, Cheyenne Linton, Clayton Mosier, Ella Kemler, Heather Beair, Preston Bugh, Riley Boroff, Kyle Hamilton, Coty Baer, Amy Beair, Kenzy Parsons, Ethan Kemler, Marissa Parsons, Kelsey Ditmyer, Danielle Baer, Kobe Palmer. (Photo submitted.)

Students are constantly bombarded with negative approaches to making the right choices, “Don’t do drugs. Don’t be a bully. Don’t mess up like I did.” They are often told what not to do, but rarely told what to do. That is where Joel Penton’s message is different. Lincolnview 9th thru 12th grade students had the opportunity to listen to Joel’s positive message to them that was both relevant and impactful. Joel talked to them about commitments and how important it was not only to make a commitment, but most importantly, keep the commitment. Joel explained to the students that what will set them apart from everyone else is their ability to follow through with their commitments – stand their ground. Joel gave the students real-life examples of the rewards that result from making the right choices. His stories of personal trials and subsequent triumphs are proof that ordinary people can accomplish great things by simply following through with their commitments.

Not only did the students have the pleasure of listening to Joel speak; they were treated to a sneak preview of the concert scheduled to be held later that evening by Ryan Holliday. After graduating from college, Ryan hit the road with good friend, former college football standout, and full-time speaker Joel Penton. They have spent the last 4 years touring the country, making stops at hundreds of schools along the way. With the debut of “Train EP”, Ryan embarks on a new musical journey with no road map, no idea what tomorrow will hold, and certainly no end in sight…but that’s ok – isn’t life about the journey anyway? Check out Ryan’s music; you will be drawn to his raw vocals, authentic lyrics, and driving piano works.

It only seems appropriate to follow such a positive assembly with special recognition of a Lincolnview bus driver and students for their outstanding performance of school safety procedures during an emergency situation. Marge Knott, bus driver, was recognized for her ability to safely evacuate a bus that had mechanical problems that caused it to catch fire. She safely evacuated all passengers of her bus. The administration also recognized staff member Beth Schnipke for her assistance at the scene. Schnipke was on her way to work when she came upon the bus fire.

The passengers of the bus were also recognized. Two students in particular, Stephanie Longwell and Brianna Motz, were commended for immediately assisting the elementary age students in exiting the bus. Other students recognized were: Dylan Boroff, Doug Kashner, Curtis Stewart, John Medford, Arik Mitchener, Kaity Parsons, Aubrey Fraker, Kourtny Parsons, DJ Pahl, Austin Beard, Maranda Bigham, Josh Leiter, Johnathon Bigham, Emily Sorg, Hunter Bugh, Jennifer Schrecengost, and Kayla Gramling. See accompanying picture for the names of the elementary students who were also recognized.

Students and parents interested in Dual Enrollment courses at Lincolnview or Post Secondary Option should attend meetings on March 5 in the Neubrecht Lecture Hall. The Dual Enrollment meeting led by Gretchen Rentz from Wright State University Lake Campus will start at 6:15 p.m. Students wanting to learn more about Post Secondary Option should attend at 7 p.m.

The Lincolnview Theatre Department is busy preparing for this year’s spring production of “Little Shop of Horrors.” This is a very popular and long running off Broadway show. Cast members have been working hard to memorize lines and learn the blocking. The performance will be held at the Marsh auditorium with show dates on Saturday, March 17 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Marsh 18 at 2 p.m. We will bring you more information in the near future on the cast members and show. Plan now to attend one of these performances.

The Lincolnview Athletic Booster Club will be holding their annual Ball Drop on homecoming night, February 17. Tickets are $10 each which gives the ticketholder a chance to win up to $5,000. You need NOT be present to win. Contact Michele McCleery or Brenda Leeth at 419.968.2351 to purchase your ticket. Your support is appreciated.

POSTED: 02/08/12 at 2:31 pm. FILED UNDER: Lancer Lines