NORWICH – Local business and educational professionals gathered to discuss integral aspects of the educational spectrum regarding student welfare, job skills and how to balance education and business after graduation this weekend.

The Chenango County School Boards Association (CCSBA) Spring Dinner was held Saturday at the Canasawacta Country Club, involving school board members from throughout the county, administrators and business leaders participating in a panel discussion.

Following dinner and a brief welcoming from CCSBA President Dr. Brian Brennan, the treasurer of CCSBA honored Dan Brown, a Chenango County School Board Associate for 10 years, who will not be seeking re-election, with a plaque for his devoted service.

Hancock Superintendent Terrance Dougherty addressed the audience, saying schools in rural areas face profound challenges, yet they still remain strong when it comes to producing graduates. He also said the availability of rural schools help boost economy and they are a community asset. Financially, rural schools often feel the strain, and according to Dougherty, state aid should become less political and more practical.