001I did my best. I that I promise you they should have they should have got your heard that. But you did a great job. I will let you know. You did a great job. Oh, the best. Blake's a rockstar. Yeah. No, but but I'm tell you were there, man. You were there. Yeah. He's at a conference today. Okay. I don't even know what I did to my showing up on YouTube. No, I won't go live. Well, this is YouTube, right? YouTube. All right. Looks good. The street casting. Looks good. Thank you. All righty, sir. Best of luck. It was good knowing you for YouTube, too. Hey, so you work for County? I'm K. Yeah, I'm the supervisor of innovation and learning there. Awesome. Awesome. So, um, enjoy enjoy it. Good. Well, I hope our psych.
002Hey, I'm sure it will. Thank you, sir. Thank you. [Music] I haven't seen [Music] Okay. Yeah. Wow. [Music] Awesome. [Music] One [Music] She's [Music] Just here. [Music] Yeah. [Music] 26 right here. [Music] Good evening. Good evening. Hope everybody's doing well. I have to move this microphone. So, gently come back for this. There you go. All right. So, I want to thank you all for being here tonight as we honor our retirees this year. Um, we have 26 staff members who are retiring this year. Um not all are here this evening for for other reasons but we do have 26 honories 26 retirees this year of that of those 26 retirees 602 years of time in Ammeris County and 716 years total year of service you know combined Ammeris County and outside of the county. that
003is a uh a lot of knowledge leaving and but we do appreciate all that all you have given us and our students over the past year that you've been with us. So we do thank you for that. We do want to welcome again welcome everyone tonight. I want to honor our recognition school board members that are here this evening Mr. Chris Terry Abby Thompson Miss Priscilla [Music] Lian. Anybody else? I also want to thank Mr. Gallagher and his staff from HR for getting all this set up tonight, making everything happen. So, we do appreciate you and your team for making this this happen tonight. Uh, we do have some entertainment and Mr. Galler's going to introduce that here in a few seconds. Some of our students from Amber Middle School will be singing for us
004tonight and then we'll go with our meal after that and then recognition after the meal. So, again, thank you all for being here and I'll turn over. Thank you. Thank you, sir. All right. Welcome again. Woohoo. Nice. That's a lot of years right there dedicated to education. So, I just wanted to reiterate that I appreciate each and every one of you. Um, you've been amazing contributors to Ambridge County public schools and you're very appreciated. Now, it is my pleasure to turn things over to Miss Alisa Neras and the Amherst Middle School Coral Ensemble, who will honor you this evening with some coral melodies. [Music] Hallelujah. [Music] I will make you grow and for your delight and morning and star [Music] and I will make a balance for you and me. of green days for us
005and blue days and sea and it shall be for music when else for sing [Music] that only I remember that only you on the broad road before us. Let the ros fly. I will bring you gifts of gold. When the autumn leaves, precious gems and treasure when the buzz of [Music] spring's music is for singing. the song to hear that only I remember and that only you and [Music] I before us and the road the before us and the roadside. This shall be for music. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Under the glow of the very bright lights, I turn my face towards the warm night sky. [Music] No, above miles. Oh, I used to think Oh, she used to think wouldn't I give she a moment like you? A moment like this. Oh [Music] my opportunity. [Music]
006[Applause] [Music] every [Music] single night and Not afraid to [Music] fly. Oh, I used to think, oh, she used to think, wouldn't I give a moment like this? A moment like this. this moment, this gift. Now look at me and this opportunity standing right in front of me. One thing I know it's only my [Music] love under the spotlight started my life So this [Music] opportunity I I guarantee [Music] [Applause] [Music] watching these performances, the talent we've cultivated in public schools and you all all been a part of that. So, one last special moment of gratitude for me. I thank each and every one of you for the dedication to the lives of children that you've shown for all of the things that you have done over your careers to grow to develop to enrich
007the lives of children many of whom are adults now. Um and and that's because some of you have been at this for 40ome years. So um I just appreciate you. I I hold a deep gratitude for all you have done in service to students, families and to your community. So I thank you for that. Um, now it is time to release for dinner. So, um, Mr. Pen, you have agreed to give the blessing and once you do that for us, I will release folks to go have a nice [Music] meal. We ask everyone to please bow your heads and let us pray. Dear heavenly father, we are truly grateful for the grace and mercy that you bestowed upon us early this morning. And then gracious father, you kept your hand of protection upon us all
008day long. Allow us to allow safely here to this awesome service that you have set aside to honor the former soon to be former retirees of Amherst County Public Schools. We ask you, Father God, to bless this food that we're about to receive for the nourishment of our body. It's in Christ's name that I pray. We all give thanks. Amen. And that was a special blessing because Ernest Ben is also one of the retirees this evening. So we appreciate you very much. All right. At this time what I will do is release you all. Oh my camera. [Music] All right. So 6:30 is what I was told from one. We set it for 6:15. So we're just going to do what I can't stand here and do stand up. But I will again reiterate my
009my deep gratitude. Honestly, what you do, what you have done to touch the lives of everyone in your community over the years. Amazing. And as I've said, each and every position in the division, you're all educators. Um, doesn't matter whether you are working as a bus driver, an assistant to a teacher, a teacher, a principal. It really doesn't matter what the position because you've all dedicated your lives to enriching those around you to growing and developing the students that we have in this division. So, I know I'm reiterating that, but I want to thank you again for that because it really means everything. So, you are amazing people. And I guess what I'm going to have to say is mingle for a few minutes and as soon as we're ready to dinner. [Music] I like
010[Music] And then we're going to get our last check. So that [Music] Okay. [Music] All right, look at that. That was a bit sooner than I thought. And I know you love mingling, but it is time for me to go ahead and folks to uh to dinner. So, as you're going to start with this side of the room over here, peacefully table, if you want to go along through the line, please. Congratulations, sir. Love you, too. Thank you for everything. The way you represent Christ. I appreciate that. Yeah. Thank you. actually. Thank you for requesting that song. Yeah. Wasn't that great? Oh my god, that's my favorite. I'm sitting back here looking at me like So, have you seen Annie like the new version? Oh my gosh, she's so good. sung that song. Yeah. And
011I was telling I was telling like I just think about each kid and some some of the things that some of those kids have gone through and singing that song like hits me right. I was right there. That's what she told me. She said you requested it. Thank you. Yeah. I'm doing well. Doing it's only there's only that like hour that I felt terrible. Yeah. Careful how you said it hits me in the heart and we don't want to hear that. Yeah. The heart monitor's off. I mailed it back this morning. haven't had anything since then. So, I don't know. And I wasn't even having a terrible day that day. I wasn't even like I mean it was teacher appreciation week. We were having fun that week. [Music] They were [Music] taking Ryan. [Music] She's
012been filming it lately. Yeah. Yeah. So, we'll see this evening comes away. We found out a couple honories are here this evening. So for those that are not here, I will still call the name and kind of note the years of experience with ACPS and maybe overall. So we begin this evening with the high school and our first honor is Cheryl Fails and she was with us for 20 years with ACPS total time as well. She's not here this evening. Um, Miss Terry O'Hara is not with us this evening, but she is retiring this year from the high school as well from economics and personal finance. And she was with ACPS for 9 years, but 25 years overall in education. And now, if I could request that Mr. Ernest Penn come forward to the podium.
013And presenting Mr. Penn is Dr. Wells. [Applause] It's my 15th birthday. I tested it out earlier. Good evening. And before I start with Mr. D again, I want to thank him for being here. I look around the room. I see a lot of folks that um I have worked with many years. some of you 30 some odd years. So I appreciate your time. Uh we get to this point, you know, a little bit of envy from my position a little bit sometimes when I say y'all retiring get you. But anyway, wish you the best in your retirement. Again, thank you all for all you've done. So Mr. P, tonight we're going to honor the extraordinary career of Mr. Ernest Penn who has been the heart and soul of Ammeris Education Center for the past 27
014years. As the lead administrator of our alternative education school, Mr. Ken has devoted himself to admission that requires immense patience, compassion, and vision. Helping students reach their full potential when others may have lost hope. Mr. Pam, your belief in the power of education has been nothing short of inspiring. Every day for nearly three decades, you have walked through the doors of AC at the time. Now at A bring with you a commitment to meet each student where they are and guide them toward brighter futures. You have been a source of stability, wisdom, and encouragement for students and staff alike. Before joining us public schools as the lead of our program, Mr. and honed his dedication to education ultimate job core where reserves both the world of work instructor and the GED instructor. This experience laid
015the foundation for what would become a remarkable career. One centered on empowering students who needed it most. Your ability to focus not only on academics but also on life skills has left the lasting impact on countless young people. One of the hallmarks of your leadership has been your ability to see the potential in every student who walked into AEC. You've not just been an administrator, you've been a mentor, a role model, and often a second chance for students who needed someone to believe in them. Your compassion has turned doubt into determination, and your support has turned obstacles into opportunities. Stories of students who have gone on to achieve great things because of your guidance are too numerous to count. Your dedication not only shaped the lives of individual students but also strengthen our entire school
016community. The legacy you leave at Amoris education ceremony of hope, resilience, and transformation. You have shown us all what it means to truly serve and for that we are forever grateful. As you step into this new chapter of retirement, we know that today will soon be a feel as well as a rest, perhaps some new adventures, and hopefully a bit of time to reflect on the profound difference you have made. On behalf of the entire Ammeris public schools family, thank you for your tireless service, your compassionate leadership, and your unwavering belief in the potential of every student. So tonight, we celebrate not just your career, but the countless lives you have touched along the way. Mr. family wish you a retirement filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment. You definitely earned it. Congratulations to you, a
017true educator, a steadfast leader, an extraordinary individual. Thank you for everything and enjoy the journey ahead. Thank you, sir. All [Music] right. Now, I have the pleasure of asking Mr. can remain at the podium but in a different capacity because now he is a presenter this evening. If I can ask Miss Michelle to step over [Music] Well, once again, we want to thank everyone uh for making this day very special. Uh it is my honor and privilege to u present the next um soon to be retiree, Michelle Stemon. Miss Steman came to Monro Alternative School August of 2005, I believe it was. Um she has been with me for the last 20 years as the only math teacher at Mundo Education Center and Amherst Education Center. Um I believe she has had one of the
018toughest um jobs there is at the alternative school which is is to try to motivate and teach students at best kids who may otherwise not believe in themselves. Teaching math for teenagers I think is hard anywhere no matter what school you're at. But a lot of lot of kids come to Miss Stemman. They have a lot of potholes in the education. But because of her dedication to the profession, to her commitment to the students, they leave her class um knowing more about math than what they came to her. Well, one of the things I want to say about uh Miss Steman is that not only is she a or has been and still is a big part of our am education center family, she's a big part of my family. Um personally, she has been
019a member of my church for the last I believe 18 20 something years close to close to 20 years. uh one of the most uh dedicated and faithful members. So she's a part of my school family but also my church family. Uh she has seen my children grow up. She is one of my church school teachers, vacation Bible school teacher as well as Sunday school teacher. So I'm proud to see her retire from school and I know that she has a lot more things um on her plate and we wish her the best from this day forward. Thank you. [Applause] [Music] Yeah. Okay. [Music] Our next honore is not will be with us this evening Cunningham who is our technology teacher from Ammeris Middle School. She was with us at the county for 24 years.
020Now if I could call Miss Kim Goens to the to the stand up here to the podium and her presenter Mr. Kelly homes. [Music] So the task of being able to speak about Miss Goins is is quite a daunting one. Um you know so I I used AI create my speech and when I typed in Cam GR it's actually still on my printer printing. If it's not um a few brief words that we can say actually it will probably be a book and if you can entitle that book it will be called love hard because that's what she does uh every day that I've had the opportunity to work with her which has been this year she does amazing things and it's just a awesome gift to be able to watch her use her talents
021to benefit life for other students. Um, you know, I've known Kim for many years and she's a family friend. And when my mom passed away, she was one of the first people to reach out. When Robin's mom passed away, she was one of the first people to reach out. And I've seen that over and over and over again. She loves heart. She is compassionate about students, her family, her community, and she does an awesome job making the world a better place for our students and our faculty and staff. She's going to be tremendously missed. However, we know that she will continue to love hard. [Applause] [Music] I just wanted to say, Mr. Holmes, I appreciate your style. Claim an AI right out of the gate. I appreciate. Now I'm going to call Miss Deborah Roman
022up to go. [Music] [Applause] [Music] I've had the privilege to work with Miss Roman for 4 months. And over that time, I got to know her a little better. Uh, you know, when we talked about retirement, I had to do a little bit of research. And in doing that research, I found that she's worked in Emer County Public Schools for 29 years. She has served our schools and our students and done a tremendous job with that. However, I did not have to research what an impact she has on our students and our school. And each day as I enter the building after completing uh bus duty, she was always right there with a smile and a warm heart to greet you as you go into the Nelson Middle School. That is amazing. And it's it's
023awesome to to see that type of individual. You miss those type of individuals when they leave your school. But also, we do know that Miss Roman is going to continue. sorry, eight grandchildren, the oldest, which is 16. So, she's going to be spending time with her grandkids. And Miss Roman, I do want to say thank you for your years as a service to County Public Schools and to thank you so much, man. [Music] All right, we had a few other Penelis Middle School Trojans to reflect upon this evening who were not able to make it. Miss Lisa Shainer was with Ammeris County Public Schools. She most recently as an e teacher for 16 years at Ammeris County public schools and for 26 total years in education. Mr. Jeff Tomlin was with us for seven years
024teaching social studies in Ammeris County public schools at Benellison and 29 years total. I actually taught with Jeff at Heritage High School back in that from Avalon Elementary School. Uh, Miss Pam Puffines was not able to be here, but she is a first grade teacher retiring with 10 years of experience with [Music] ACPS. And it's a privilege to call Miss Michelle Harvey up to the stage and her presenter, Miss Manny Cassi, Dr. Cisi. [Music] So Michelle and I already discussed this. We don't like get up in front of people. So she said, "I have to sit in that chair." Cheers for you. So Michelle, it's an honor to stand here and celebrate someone who's made an incredible impact over the last 30 years um in education. You've been with County Public School [Music] Dist. Um
025Michelle's been a cornerstone at AES. Um, her dedication to students has never gone unnoticed. She has consistently gone above and beyond to make sure that every child who walked through a classroom doors was equipped with the tools, support, and quality instruction they needed to thrive. Her charact of academics, she nurtured confidence, built character, and helped shape the futures of countless students. One of Michelle's co-workers put it perfectly when she said, "I have always admired Michelle's dedication to her students." That admiration is shared by all of us at AES. She's brought passion, patience, and purpose to her work every single day. Michelle has also been the kind of colleague we all hope to work alongside. Her generosity with ideas, her willingness to collaborate, her commitment to doing what's best for students has made her a true
026team player. Another colleague shared, "She's always willing to share and exchange ideas to determine the best opportunities for our students." That spirit of teamwork and shared purpose is something that will deeply miss. And while we're also happy for Michelle she begins this next exciting chapter, there's no denying that her absence will become. She has been a vital part of the AES family. Someone we could count on, someone who lifted us up, and someone who made our school better. Michelle, thank you. Thank you for three decades of service to students. [Applause] [Music] All right, if I could now have Miss Linda Morfield come up to the stage and her presenter, Mr. Josh Neighbors. [Applause] [Music] And I apologize. Our co-founder is Julia. Mr. Warfield has far too many accolades for one person. It is my pleasure
027this evening in joining Miss Julie Albert in honoring our dear colleague and friend Miss Lindfield. Miss Warfield has been a member of the ACBS family for 30 years. All in the service of our preschool program. 30 years preschool. That's a whole lot of little babies. All right. Beginning as an instructional assistant the very first and at the time only prek class the entire division. Miss Morfield moved on to become one of the finest teachers I've ever seen and most recently has been serving her colleagues in prey as a division coach. To walk into Miss Warfield's classroom is to see a master educator at work. No opportunities to support, instruct, and love on your kids was missed and generations of Anders County students were better because of their time with you. Missfield, you are truly irreplaceable.
028We cannot thank you enough for your service to our schools. [Music] So, Linda, it was very hard to decide which amazing things I would share about you since there are so many. Um, I finally decided to share a memory of one of the first times I was in your classroom as I think it speaks volumes about New York. It won't stand out to you as I truly believe that it was born for you each day. If you remember, Dr. while and I were visiting prek classrooms after um we had completed that two-year training with TAC related to inclusive practices for students with disabilities. What we witnessed that day gave both of us chills that could have been recorded for a best practice training. You had a class of 18 boisterous preschool students, some who had
029significant disabilities. You let a whole group story while constantly monitoring a student who needed to pace the room. And then you seamlessly transitioned him to the rug, to the group, and into your lab to assist with the story props without impacting the lesson whatsoever. He then became an active participant, interacted with his peers, and met the same lesson objectives as all the other students. That day, we knew we had to um needed to develop a plan for your expertise and impact to reach others. You are a phenomenal person, friend, teacher, colleague, and coach. Thank you for your dedication to students, families, and staff. Your expertise has had such a powerful and positive impact and allows us to provide high quality preschool programs. We wish you the best. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] I will announce some honores
030from Central Elementary School who are not able to make it this evening. Uh Miss Donna Burks, instructional assistant, was with us for 24 years with ACPS. Miss Angie Cash, who we lost over this year, was with us for 16 years and ACPS as a custodian. And Miss Kathy Nolan, who is not present with us, who I work with a lot when I got here, was with us as a board certified behavior analyst and was with Ammerst County Public Schools for [Music] years. Moving on to Elen Elementary School. I'll please ask Miss Deborah Quinnland to come up to the stage and the presenter. [Applause] [Music] So before I retire, I will speak off the cuff like Mr. Penn and Mr. Holmes. But tonight I do have your favorite group. Um, good evening. Also, I'm a crier,
031so So he cried and he cried. Um and today we're here to celebrate someone who has been a shining star at Elen Elementary for many years. Our friend colleague and instructional assistant Debbie Wood. While it's hard to sum up the impact she's had, one thing is clear. The school simply won't be the same without her. Debbie has been the kind of person every school hopes to have. reliable, caring, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to both students and staff. One year when the regular history teacher was out for several months, Debbie did not hesitate. She stepped in, let students and the substitute teacher through Virginia studies seamlessly and successfully. It was truly an amazing thing to watch was reported by Miss Bunch. And one example of her stepping up not for recognition, but because of who she
032is. Also, Mrs. Sponge states, "Debbie is irreplaceable. If you've worked with her, you know that's not an exaggeration. When she's in your classroom, things run smoother. She helps manage behavior, support academics, and somehow always knows when a student just isn't quite getting something. She never hesitates to jump in and make it better." Jim Battle shared how much he misses Debbiey's steady presence. She's been without she's been out on retirement since October. her organization, her teaching skills, and the way she always went above and beyond at the drop of a hat. That's what made her special. Her quiet leadership and unwavering devotion to students. Christy Maze reminds us of Debbie Thor, how she looked out for everyone, offering thoughtful advice and showing her generosity in countless ways. Whether she was supporting students or fellow staff members,
033you always knew that we had your back. And every August when the rest of the staff were still shifting out of summer mode, Debbie was there. Getting ready for the new school year, Michelle Dton, a fellow IIA, said it best. Debbie just knew what needed to be done. Always flexible, always dependable, and always ready to jump into any new role that needed filling. Through it all, one thing remained constant. Debbiey's love for her family. That love has guided her decisions and filled her with the quiet strength that's defined her work here in our community. As much as we'll miss her at El Elementary, we're truly happy she is now has the time to be more present with those who need the most to her. Debbie, you've left a mark on the school that won't fade.
034Your dedication and kindness and your ability to lift up students and staff are things we'll carry with us. Thank you for everything. For your service, for your soaring spirit, and for your heart. Can you more than earn the new reject filled with rest, joy, and the precious time of being [Applause] [Music] All right. The next honore who is listed is Elen Elementary School. Actually could be best described as serving at Venellis Middle School, the school's administrative offices and most recently at Madison Heights Elementary School. Miss Martha Paulberger Marty uh who has 22 years of experience with ACPS in 29 years total. She was not even with us tonight. So a little story. The next individual I have to present I heard a story that she did not want to sit in the rock. However, as
035the individual who brought her out of the classroom to make greater bigger impact on more lives in the central office, you're still here. You're still working and you are directed to sit. Miss Julie Albert to the stage. [Applause] [Music] Yeah. So, Miss Albert reminded me of her second request this evening to keep it quick for two. Miss Albert, I apologize. All right. [Music] This is where you man years ago. I came to Amber 7 years ago. I first met [Music] should have as cry. All right, Julia, first person I met that week. Julie took me on a tour of the division. It was a memorable time for many different reasons, but ultimately we were visiting the schools, meeting all the building administrators. She was introducing me um and was welcomed into each building because I
036was with Julie Cumber. We were able to have those important early conversations to let you know to let me know whether I struggled with my partner. For those who don't have working with Julie, she's one of the kindest and most gracious individuals who ever meet her ability to build meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues alike. Clearly, that same spirit of care, connection also supported those first weeks. every interaction I've had and senior have since after 33 years of dedicated service at Hammers County public schools at central central Elon and SA Jill is retiring leaving behind a legacy of compassion commitment and tireless advocacy for students especially those who need her most as a career special educator she's devoted her work to lifting up the most vulnerable and their families her leadership help drive one
037of the largest expansions of preschool programming in our division open doors of opportunity for so many children. Through every challenge, she led with integrity and heart guided by an unwavering belief in doing what is best for kids. Her council has been a steady anchor for countless educators and her presence has made ACPS a stronger, more caring place. [Music] deeply grateful for everything you've done for me for so many others. We're going to miss you today. We're not going to hold you too far. We're going to have some conversations, but we're very excited for your next chapter, especially those grand ladies. Congratulations. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Okay. Region. All [Music] right. And the next honore served as my mentor and role model when I was a supervisor of student services and special education and I'm now rush
038of individuals who have made the most profound impact as leaders on my life. So I'll call Dr. David Norman to the stage. I know. I will do my best after following Josh. All right, Dana. [Music] So tonight we're I'm going to recognize Dr. Dan Norman, our chief academic officer and assistant superintendent who has been with us for 12 years. Dr. Norman, you as you prepare to embark on this well-deserved retirement journey. We find ourselves filled with a mix of emotions, gratitude for your contributions, admiration for your achievements, and perhaps a tiny bit of envy that you're soon retirement. As she reminds us almost every day, 12 years. What election leave behind? Woman joined our division with a mission to uplift and improve our schools. She spearheaded the school improvement process with vision and determination. Always
039believing that every student deserves the best possible education. From helping schools identify innovative strategies to fostering an unwavering culture of excellence to performance fingerprints on every success story we've had over the past decade. When you first came to ACPS, I was principal middle school. Uh when we first met, I never thought I'd be giving you this speech tonight as superintendent. And whatever you did, you pushed me and you supported me during my roles as principal in Nelson at the high school and as assistant superintendent. I'm grateful for everything you've done on me school division as well. One of our most impactful initiatives is was information thanking maps. back two years ago recognized the need for tools that could enhance critical thinking and problem solving skills across all grade levels. Dr. Norman championed his program with
040passion and precision. Bigger leadership teachers were trained. Students were empowered in the classroom were transformed and developed a visual learning and cognitive growth. His successive thinking maps and fostering deeper understanding and engagement among her students is yet another testament of her forward thinking approach to education. Let us not forget COVID 19. I don't think any of us know it. When schools across the country were tharray, Dr. Norman remained a beacon of calm and ingenuity. She led the charge to establish online instruction in our division, ensuring that students education would not falter in the face of this unprecedented challenge. While others were figuring out how to unmute from Google Google meetings and zooms and everything else, she was busy Marco Polo and everybody in the school division. I [Music] refuse cuz I know they'll be hitting
041me at 3:00 in the morning. I said, "Nope, I'm not doing no more." Her efforts not only bris the gap during those uncertain times, but also paved the way for innovation and how we approach education today. Little humorous observation, she seems to be getting happier and happier every day. During a staff meeting that she makes a point for madness that she's retiring, she likes to rub that salt in the wings. And yesterday was her birthday. Um, Mr. Neighbors made her hot dogs for her birthday. One of her birthday so we had hot dogs for lunch. But your accomplishments are extraordinary. You began teaching in Bedville, North Carolina. Worked in Bedford County for 13 years where you were an English teacher at Middle Language arts teacher at Bedford Middle. I got to read off these because
042I can't remember. English instructional specialist and assistant principal of Goody Elementary and the supervisor humanities and school improvement in Amoris. He has served us as a chief chief academic officer and assistant superintendent since she joined us in 2013. Most impressively, which to me I feel is fairly impressive. She may not think so. She worked for the National Capital Strategies where she consulted with Laura Bush during the Bush administration focusing on policy related to early childhood and cognitive development. You have invested your time and energy not only in our students but also in our staff. You focus on growing the leadership in our schools and across the division, empowering our future leaders to achieve their best. It is your kindness. Although some may not get to experience that kindness depending on what mood she's in when
043she comes to the school. Your humility, your unwavering commitment to our students that will leave the deepest mark. As you transition to this next chapter, we imagine your days will be soon filled with things like vacations at the beach, leisurely breakfast, new hobbies, maybe a cosmo or two. On behalf of the entire school community, we thank you for everything you've done. You've given us your best and will never and will ever be we will be forever better for it. Your leadership has been a true gift to Ammeris County. You've inspired countless educators, students, and administrators. and your influence will undoubtedly ripple through the community for generations. There have been some tough decisions that have been that have been made, but when asked why, the answer has always been that decision is what is best for
044kids. You never hear from that philosophy regardless of the heat that may come your way of decisions. You always put the students first. So tonight, we don't say goodbye. Instead, we say see you soon. We wish you retirement filled with joy, relaxation, and maybe even a few mornings. Exit the alarm clock. and you learned it. The honey may make you get up and cook. I don't think you can cook any breakfast. So again, Dr. Norman, your true leader, extraordinary colleague, and wonderful friend. Thank you for everything you've done and hope you've enjoyed this next adventure. [Applause] [Music] I like Mr. Mr. forget something. [Music] Congratulations. [Music] All right, Mr. Ben, we're retired. There you go. [Applause] All righty, folks. We're going to move on to the transportation department and honor some of our retirees there.
045Some of the individuals were not able to make it this evening. I'll start with Miss Betty Cash who was not able to be here. She was a bus driver and worked for us for 29 years in Ammeris County Public Schools. Uh Mr. Jeff Clark is also retiring from the position of bus driver and he was with us for 14 years in Ammeris County Public Schools. Now, if I could welcome Miss Gail Martin to the stage and our presenter, Miss Ron Campbell. [Music] Josh, on behalf of Gemini, we have her first. [Music] Good evening, all. Um, this is a first for me. I actually have three attendees tonight. So we are taking applications retired come on we are more than welcome to stay [Music] [Laughter] night. So over the past seven years this has been my
046first time of having this with my people that are attending with us tonight. We have a combined total service of 96 years. So with just the three of you ladies, Mrs. Gail Martin joined ACPS in August of 2002 and throughout the years she has served as a bus driver on our main street and our sped buses. Mrs. Martin's elementary route over the past several years for Central Elementary involved into one of our largest elementary groups that we've transported. Her bus was busting at disease of 67 little ones. As you can imagine, this was not an easy task, but Mrs. Martin used her stern voice. No inside air intercom needed and was able to maintain control. Mrs. Martin's family experienced a hardship of the illness of her beloved husband, Allan, and was set the path for
047a long recovery process that eventually led Mrs. Martin to have to make this quick decision to retire. During her preparations for retirement, Mrs. Martin never gave up on her ACPS family, even was unable to even when she was unable to dedicate every day to us. She was determined to give as much time as she could to her students and her team. Mr. Martin took a turn for the worst in December and unfortunately passed away, leaving a huge void not only for the Martin family, but numerous others in our department, in our community who knew the family very well. Mrs. Martin spent a lot of her time with ACPS serving as a dedicated member of our bus association where she appeared before our school board to band together with her colleagues to support for our needs
048and requests for paid parking lot, parking lot lighting, and much more. Mrs. Martin's dedication to our department will not end at retirement. She continues to support the association and will push forward for improvements for our family. In Mrs. Martin's own words, "The old-timers are getting few and far between. I guess it's time to step aside, ped in my garden, do some canning, spend some time on my farm. Thank you, Gail, for all that you've done for us. [Applause] [Music] And I'll ask Miss Kim will remain at the stage and we will bring Miss Laya Smith to the stage, please. [Applause] [Music] So, Miss Laya, just because you're retired does not mean you don't come and bring us those sweet treats. Okay? Did you know I need them? So, Miss Lyla Smith joined ACPS in September
049of 1984, 40 years ago. Wow. Can you imagine what she has seen driving a bus over the last 40 years? I would venture to say that she has probably transported the moms and dads of the kids that she has now and maybe even a grandchild or two. Mrs. Smith has served on served on many different routes during her 40 years and in the past seven and a half years she has been driving the Temperance and Pleasant View area. Although currently she has been assigned to only a secondary school route, she's always been available to jump in to help her colleagues. So when you think about bus routes, you think secondary school start at 7:30, end at 2:45. But Mrs. Miss Day actually begins checking her bus at 5:00 a.m. She departs her parking spot cuz
050her first pickup is at 5:40. Yes, ma'am. Yep. 5:40. But she also in the afternoon by the time she gets everyone home and clears her bus, she's averaging about 5, excuse me, 4:45 to 450. That's a long time to be driving a bus when you know you're not going to end up at the beach. The current school year has been a true hardship for her family. She suffered a hard loss too very unexpectedly with the monarch of the family ill passed away. Mr. Smith was not only a huge support for her and her family, but for us too. It was not uncommon for a tree to have fallen in the temperance area and blocked poor Evelyn. Evelyn, excuse me. Miss Laya blocked her in. She would simply say, "Call my husband. He'll come." Shortly afterward,
051she had always radio and say, "I'm moving again." And then he would call saying, "She's safe." When Mrs. Smith told me she was intending to retire this year, she explained to me that she needed to spend as much time as she could with her sons and grandchildren, she said as much as importance of ACPS and her students meant to her, she needed to be with her family and not miss another thing. She just recently celebrated the graduation of her granddaughter from Bridgewwater. So, I'd also like to congratulate a lot of you in here because her granddaughter was a graduate of ACPS. She just graduated Bridgewwater. Congratulations. So, on behalf of everyone, I'd like to say thank you for everything you've done after this week and next week. No five o'clock mornings unless you're baking sweets.
052Thank you, Miss Lama. [Music] I'll ask that Miss Brenda Thompson, who's retiring as a bus driver, come to the stage, please. [Applause] [Music] Mrs. Brenda Thompson as we know her SK. I was quickly corrected when I started there that no one calls her Brenda but a mom. So, she's Kay. Um, joined ACPS in September of 1992. Mrs. Thompson comes from a very long line of dedicated bus drivers from her mom to her sister who were longtime drivers of our department before retiring. Mrs. Mrs. Thompson serves as a driver in the Elon area going through Niola to the Rockbridge line who knows each and every student, parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles of each one of her students. She has built a lasting relationship with her families, not to mention the school staff. When I first transferred
053to trans when I first transferred down to transportation from the schoolboard office, this was so new to me. I was scared and questioning what in the world had I gotten myself into. I came from a department of a family of one of five Julie to one of 90 and thought, "What in the world have I gotten myself into?" But Mrs. Thompson and her sister took me under their wings and taught me. She said she'd never leave my side and she had my back. She showed me how to merge around, pull drivers around to help cover, and how to tell drivers no, they couldn't be off. They actually would come in before school started and would spend hours with me teaching me how to merge runs. When I lost a driver in the Leon Elon area,
054it was panic time for me and I was panicked horribly. She came in and sat down with me with the route in question and manipulated it so I could incorporate it into theirs, which is still being done today. Mrs. Thompson is another driver who's had a long route. Her first pickup was at 550, I believe. By the time she clears in the afternoon, it's 5:10, 5:15. Her dedication to her students and to make sure she recommended, excuse me, accommodated the parents as best as she could was uncanny. She would make changes mid route to take a student to grandma's house because mom has called and said she couldn't get to the stop in time. I can't imagine how I will work out upcoming shortages out. So, be prepared for a call soon. I know I'll
055need your guidance. Without a doubt, need your guidance. So on behalf of Ammeris County Public Schools and Transportation and our community, I'd like to thank each of you ladies for every year you have dedicated to us, to our students, and to our community. You are an inspiration, you are appreciated, and you are loved. You will truly be [Music] missed. All [Music] right. The next honore we're here to celebrate this evening was not able to make it is from the technology department. Miss Brenda Fitro was with Ammeris County Public Schools for 26 years for a total of 38 years of service in education. Thank you Brenda. And for the child nutrition offices is Julie Watts, who is not with us either, who was a CMP child nutrition program bookkeeper and secretary for 25 years with. And
056now for closing remarks, I welcome Mr. Chris Ary, our board chair, to the stage. [Music] So, first off, I'd like to thank Sweet Brier. If you've ever attended an event up here, the food is always phenomenal and they do such a great job. Ammerst Middle School, the the singing, you know, the programs we have at our schools are just incredible. But the beautiful thing about tonight is we're not here to celebrate the kids. We're here to celebrate you guys. And uh I don't know, I lost track of the numbers. 600 plus years in Ammeris County Schools, 700 plus years all the way around. I have had the privilege of working in my job for almost 34 years. And I can say I've probably mentored a couple dozen people. If you think of 700 years of
057service, the number of kids that came through your your classes or your on your bus or whatever, the number of kids you have impacted in those years is phenomenal. I mean, I don't even know how to do that math. I need the math teacher here to figure it out. But it's such an honor to be able to, you know, thank you guys for your service and what you have done to to and for our own students. My kids all came up through Ammerst County Schools. I came through Ammerst County Schools and it is it is just a privilege to be here. Um, remember as you go on, you are not the teacher or bus driver anymore. was the retiree, but you're still going to be somebody's favorite teacher or the cool bus driver or that
058counselor who helped me through a rough time. So, thank you for all that you've done and uh on behalf of the administration office board uh school board, Ammerst County School Board, uh we thank you for all that you've done. So, thank you very much and have a good evening. Drive safe. Thank you very much, sir. Appreciate that. Just one last opportunity here. If I could just have all of our honores stand up for a moment, please. You kind of stand up where you are. You may all turn your task on. I just really wanted to give one more round of applause to amazing individuals. [Applause] [Music]