On her last night as a member of the Brookhaven SchoolDistrict’s board of trustees, Amy Valentine received praise andgifts in honor of her five years of service.

As they began their February meeting Wednesday in the centraloffice’s conference room, the board was commended by John Hartman,executive director of the Mississippi School BoardsAssociation.

Hartman recognized Valentine for her term as a member of thestate board, to which she was reelected in November.

“Mrs. Valentine served honorably on that board and withdistinction. We will miss you very, very much,” said Hartman as hepresented her with a clock in a wooden encasement.

Valentine had to give up her seat on the state board when shewas not nominated for a second term on the school board last monthby the Brookhaven board of aldermen.

She briefly thanked the other board members and school officialsfor the many memories over the past five years.

“I marvel every day at what we’ve done for the kids of theBrookhaven School District. I pray every day that we’ll continue tobe blessed and we’ll continue to flourish,” she said.

Valentine was complimented by other board members as well asSuperintendent Dr. Sam Bounds.

“I hope the person who follows you has the heart for theBrookhaven School District and the kids that you have,” hesaid.

Bounds also took the opportunity to express his appreciation tothe entire board by giving them a certificate and leatherportfolios in honor of national school board recognition week Feb.17-21.

Following the remarks, a large cake was brought out in honor ofValentine. During its presentation, board member Gwendolyn Sartinthanked Valentine for being a “woman of integrity and of faith” andfor inspiring her to do the same.

Board member Carl Aycock also expressed appreciation forValentine’s representation in the district and on state levels.

“You were able to help Brookhaven throughout the state,” hesaid.

After a few minutes of routine matters, the board convened intoan executive session to discuss a student matter.