CANFIELD — Ashley Mariano, of the Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio, was recognized as the “Support Staff of the Year” by the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board for service to the Lowellville Local School District, its students and community.

May 5 was a tragic day for Lowellville schools when a seventh grader shot himself during a lunch period.

The Educational Service Center, formerly Mahoning County ESC, immediately became engaged to support the district, with Mariano, the center’s prevention coordinator and family and community partnership liaison, coordinating the response.

“Ashley was instrumental in responding to the crisis situation with a team of mental health professionals, including school and local agency personnel,” said Traci Hostetler, ESCEO superintendent. “Throughout the process, she connected students, family, and staff to appropriate providers for additional support and resources.”

Mariano worked with staff, law enforcement, and other key county agencies to develop a re-entry plan for students, families, and staff, including developing a tiered counseling support plan based on individual needs.

Mariano was recognized for her service and support at the Mahoning County Mental Health Recovery Board’s annual recognition luncheon in September in Youngstown.

“This award is such an honor,” she said. “I am fortunate to get to work my dream job, supporting educators and helping professionals to provide the best care for our students and our community. ”

“Ashley takes her role and responsibilities to heart and is dedicated to her vocation,” said Hostetler. “She is always willing to go above and beyond and is very passionate about wanting to help others.”

The ESC of Eastern Ohio introduced the role of prevention coordinator when Mariano came on board in August 2020 and saw her role expand with the addition of the family and community partnership liaison role in December 2020.

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