MENTONE — At its first meeting since the re-opening of classrooms for the 2018-2019 school year, the Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation board of trustees welcomed a new guidance counselor to its high school.

TVHS Guidance Counselor Karen Lenfesty

“Mrs. Karen Lenfestey is going to be our new guidance counselor at Tippecanoe Valley High School,” said TVHS Principal Chad Cripe. “Karen brings with her just a wealth of knowledge. She has eight years experience as a guidance counselor at Goshen High School. She took time off to be a mom and in her time off to be a mom she found a way to write books, so she’s an accomplished author. She’s got a ton of experience at the next level, helping kids succeed. She has jumped right in and has been an amazing, quick learner and just a true professional and we’re really excited to have her here tonight in front of you guys.”

Also present at the board meeting was the corporation’s monthly board meeting was Laren Molinari, physical education and swim instructor for Mentone Elementary School. “I’m so excited to be here and have this experience,” Molinari told the board.

The board also heard from Superintendent Blaine Conley that the school corporation was named a Riley Children’s Foundation Red Wagon Corporation. School districts are eligible when they achieve a donation level equivalent to $1 per student.

“TVSC’s students and staff repeatedly exhibit the heart of Valley’s mission of being committed to student success through the development of character, leadership, and literacy, said Conley. “Tippecanoe Valley is also committed to giving back to others in need, in and out of their community.”

The designation is part of Riley Foundation’s Kids Caring and Sharing Program.

The board also accepted grants and donations from Rochester Telephone Company and from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security as well as an anonymous grant for $5,000.

Conley also announced this year’s distinguished alumni, six former Valley grads, as well as a graduate of the Burket Educational Center and one Mentone High School grad who will be recognized at a dinner Sept. 13. This year’s distinguished alumni are Jeff Bever, TVHS 1995; Robby Hamman, TVHS 2006; Joe Harter, TVHS 1980; Derek Jenkins, 2007; Amanda Keith, TVHS 2000; Douglas Routh, TVHS 1985; Shalena Hughes Rude, BEC 2009; and Madonna Sue Nellans-Creighton, MHS, 1962.