By Elizabeth Reiss
Beacon reporter

Those who wish to nominate someone for a newly created Hall of Fame at Baltic High School have until next week to do so.
The Baltic High School Hall of Fame Committee has extended the deadline, allowing nomination forms to be submitted through April 29. The Hall of Fame will honor alumni, past staff members and contributors of BHS whose exceptional accomplishments reflect positively upon the school, Baltic Superintendent Bob Sittig said.
“A student could be named for something they accomplished here while they were in school,” he said, “or something after graduation.”
To nominate someone, download the form on the school’s Web site at www. Baltic.k12.sd.us and click “Hall of Fame.” BHS graduates, current and past employees of BHS and anyone who lives in the school district are eligible to submit nominations. Alumni and staff nominees are not eligible for induction until five years after graduation or employment. More information and a list of rules can be viewed on the Web site.
The Hall of Fame Committee, made up of school officials, extracurricular coaches and advisors, city representatives, alumni, community members and booster organizations, will select inductees in June by a secret ballot vote. An induction ceremony is planned for Homecoming week this fall.
Inductees in the Hall of Fame will remain there permanently, Sittig said.
A plaque that shows the inductees’ photo and a description of accomplishments will be displayed in the school commons area.
During the Hall of Fame’s formation, the organizers talked about the importance of current students looking up to role models from BHS.
“Once…past students are recognized, it will encourage other kids to set a goal to be a part of it,” said Tara Melmer, a member of the formation committee.
BHS has a trophy case that recognizes and displays athletic accomplishments, although the criteria for being included in it have been inconsistent, Sittig said. During discussions about the Hall of Fame, Baltic Board of Education members said it is important that it recognizes and includes all areas of accomplishments.