Keith Schmelling, vice president of the Merrill Area Public Schools Board of Education has been recognized by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards.

Schmelling was honored for attaining the WASB’s first level of achievement in its member recognition program, distinguishing himself as a board member who is dedicated to leadership and service. He was presented a pin and a certificate of achievement at the organization’s Region 5 fall meeting, which took place in Rothschild on September 28.

“We were very pleased to hear that WASB had chosen to recognize Mr. Schmelling for his tremendous service to both our district and our community,” said Dr. Lisa Snyder, superintendent. “He has been a great asset to us and has worked hard to ensure that our students get the quality education they need and deserve.”

Schmelling was first elected to the MAPS Board of Education in 2008, and was elected vice president in April of that same year. He also serves as Department Manager of claims and loss control at McMillan Warner Mutual; the past three terms as president of the Wisconsin River Valley Claim Association; five-year member of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Company’s Loss Control committee; member of the “Outreach to Mexico” mission group; and, member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Bloomville, WI.

The WASB seeks to advance education through supporting the tradition of local school board control of the state’s public schools. It helps meet the challenges facing school boards by providing innovative ideas, advocacy, essential services, resources, relevant programs and quality information.

“One of the reasons why Merrill Area Public Schools have been so successful is due to the dedication of our board,” Snyder said. “We owe a debt of gratitude to these individuals, who take a considerable amount of time out of their lives to serve our students and community.”