October 14, 2026 - Three Wicomico Public Schools employees were recognized for going the "Extra Mile" in their work duties at the October 13th Board of Education meeting. Robert O'Day, custodian at James M. Bennett High, Ben Sandlin, Teacher/Coach/Athletic Director at James M. Bennett, and LiAnn Piposzar, Community School Coordinator at Willards elementary were honored and given a plaque and certificate for their outstanding work.
Below you can read why each was chosen as an Extra Mile Award Recipient.
ROBERT O'DAY - CUSTODIAN - JAMES M. BENNETT
Robert has been an asset to JMB since he began. During one of the busiest times of the school year homecoming season, which was the 3rd week of school. Robert has continuously gone above and beyond his normal work duties to ensure our events run seamlessly.
From setting up facilities and cleaning up after late-night powder puff and the homecoming dance to handling some of the additional little things in between, Robert helped make homecoming week go off without any major issues. What makes his contribution truly extraordinary is his unwavering positive attitude. Whenever our team needed a helping hand, Robert has been there with enthusiasm and dedication. His selflessness, reliability, and "can-do" spirit embody what it truly means to go the extra mile for our students and school community.
BEN SANDLIN - ATHLETICS DIRECTOR/PHYS ED TEACHER - JMB
Before the Fall season began, Ben's dedication was especially evident as he effectively managed the responsibilities of both the Athletic Director and Athletic Trainer positions while we were without a trainer.
In addition to ensuring teams had everything they needed to begin the season, Ben coordinated schedules, arranged transportation, and oversaw the preparation and maintenance of athletic facilities and fields. He also worked diligently to ensure student-athletes had all required paperwork completed and documents properly submitted. Whenever additional support was needed, Ben stepped up and assisted with tasks that would normally fall under the Athletic Trainer's responsibilities. He helped coordinate local EMTs and others qualified care professionals to cover athletic events until a new trainer was hired. His willingness to take on extra responsibilities, solve problems, and support others exemplifies outstanding commitment and leadership.
He generously gives his time, supports coaches and administrators, and demonstrates tremendous school pride. His dedication, positive attitude, and tireless efforts make the athletic program at James M. Bennett High School stronger and more successful. Ben truly embodies what it means to go the “extra mile.”
LIANN PIPOSZAR - COMMUNITY SCHOOL COORDINATOR - WILLARDS ELEMENTARY
As a vital link between Wonderful Willards and the surrounding community, LiAnn consistently goes above and beyond to support students, families, and staff. When LiAnn identifies a need within her school or community, she doesn't wait for someone else to address it—she takes initiative, identifies resources, and finds ways to make things happen.
LiAnn has successfully written and secured numerous grants through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, bringing additional resources and opportunities to Willards Elementary. Recently, LiAnn and Principal Jen Rice were featured in an Attendance Works article highlighting Willards Elementary's efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism and strengthen its community school strategy.
What makes LiAnn especially deserve the Extra Mile Award is her unwavering commitment to the Willards community. She approaches her work with enthusiasm, compassion, creativity, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Whether she is securing resources, strengthening partnerships, supporting families, or collaborating with school leadership, LiAnn consistently places the needs of her community, families, and, above all else, students at the forefront of everything she does.
If you see these Extra Mile Award recipients in your travels, please THANK them for going above and beyond for Wicomico County Public Schools.