At the Osceola School District Board Meeting on May 27, 2025, recognition of student athletes and a harrowing school bus safety incident took center stage. Harmony Baseball head coach Heath Williams and flag football head coach Paul Strock were honored for their teams' outstanding achievements, including a shared team GPA of 3.4, the highest in the county. Notably, Samuel Castillo and Martha Edwards were named players of the year for their respective sports.
In a poignant moment, the meeting also highlighted the retirement of long-serving educator Mr. Hickey, who was commended for his dedication to student athletes and education over his 39-year career.
The discussion shifted dramatically when Vicky Turosi, a school bus driver, recounted a near-miss incident while picking up students. She described a situation where a dump truck failed to stop as students crossed the road to board the bus. Turosi's quick thinking and decisive actions prevented a potential tragedy, as she shouted for the children to stop and maneuvered the bus to avoid a collision. Her bravery was recognized with a certificate of appreciation and a gift bag filled with school bus merchandise.
The meeting underscored the importance of both academic and athletic excellence in the district, while also serving as a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers faced in school transportation. The board expressed gratitude for the commitment of educators and staff who prioritize student safety and achievement.