Habersham school board honors Rennels, Barron for service

CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — Two longtime members of the Habersham County Schools community were recognized Monday night for service to the district, including one employee described as the “steady, joyful heart” of district leadership and a board member with more than 17 years of service.

The Habersham County Board of Education honored Nancy Rennels, administrative assistant to Superintendent Patrick Franklin, with the Peach State Federal Credit Union Service Above Self Award. Board member Dr. Robert Barron was also recognized for 16 years of service by the Georgia School Boards Association.

‘Steady, joyful heart’

Board Chair Joey Duncan said the board nominated Rennels for the Service Above Self Award in recognition of the work she performs behind the scenes for district leaders, employees and the board.

“Nancy is the steady, joyful heart of our school district’s leadership,” Duncan said. “In a high-pressure environment, she stands out not just for what she accomplishes, but for the infectious warmth and grace she shows every single day.”

Duncan credited Rennels with coordinating Board of Education meetings, managing complex logistics and ensuring district leaders and staff have the support and information they need.

“No task is too small or request too inconvenient,” Duncan said, adding that Rennels approaches her work with “quiet humility, deep loyalty and an eagerness to serve.”

Duncan said Rennels’ impact extends beyond the district’s administrative offices.

“Habersham County Schools, the Board of Education, our community are immeasurably better because of her, making her truly deserving of this honor,” he said.

Barron recognized for longtime service

Franklin presented Barron with a 16-year service pin from the Georgia School Boards Association, a milestone the superintendent said is rarely reached.

“The Georgia School Boards Association has different levels of service, and this is one you very rarely see,” Franklin said.

Although the recognition marked 16 years, Franklin said Barron has served on the Habersham County Board of Education for 17 years and six months.
Barron’s service to the district, however, stretches beyond his time as an elected board member.

Franklin noted Barron has served Habersham County Schools in numerous roles over the years, including as a faculty member, bus driver, Key Club sponsor and ticket taker.

“I’d like to thank you not just for your service on the board, but as a faculty member, bus driver, Key Club sponsor, ticket taker, probably many other things that folks don’t know about,” Franklin said.

Barron told those gathered that his years on the board have brought a range of experiences.

“It’s been a blessing to me. It’s been humbling. It’s been challenging,” Barron said. “But this is the best board ever to work with.”

Franklin congratulated Barron on the milestone and thanked him for his continued work on behalf of the district’s students.

“It’s very rarely seen for 16 years of service,” Franklin said.