On Thursday, the Tri-State STEM+M Early College High School hosted their second annual International Dinner, a fundraiser for Lawrence County’s newest public school.

The event also served as an occasion for one of the school’s faculty to receive a top honor from the State of Ohio.

Alicia Spears, who has served as lead instructor at the school since its inception, was presented with the Teachers of Ohio Representing Character and Heart (TORCH) Award by representatives from the Ohio Department of Education.

Spears was the first of four in Ohio to receive the award, in its inaugural year.

Spears’ passion for teaching has been evident at STEM+M events and, as the school has become established over the past two years, students have testified about the opportunities they have been given there.

Spears has provided solid leadership for the institution and has been instrumental in its success.

We salute her and the staff of the school for what they have brought to the county’s students.