At our recent end of year faculty breakfast we recognized staff for their "Years of Service." The following is a portion of my presentation.
We’re here to honor—those of you who’ve clocked in for five, ten, fifteen (and more!) years and lived to tell the tale. It’s time to recognize your years of service, your commitment, and your superhuman ability to make it through a Monday without flipping a desk.
This year, we’ve got five brave souls marking their first five years with us—starting way back in 2020. And if you remember 2020, then you know they basically walked into education during the apocalypse. Their interview process was probably a Zoom call from their kitchen table, and their first classroom management strategy involved muting students... literally. So let’s give it up for Jess Gray, Jerry Jones, Christy Hibbert, Julie Logan, and Denise Presser—for surviving five years that felt like dog years.
Next up, our decade crew—ten years strong, since 2015. That was back when TikTok was still a sound your wall clock made. These fine folks have been holding it down for a full decade: Stephanie Altgilbers, Tiffany Wegs, and Gina Whelan. You’ve officially reached the level where new teachers ask you how to unjam the copier—and trust you to actually know how.
Now for the 15-year club. One lone ranger rode in back in 2010 and is still standing strong—Bobette Keefe. Fifteen years in and still showing up with the energy of someone who hasn’t been asked, “Is this for a grade?” a 1,000 times.
Now, buckle up. It’s time for the “you’ve been here since before smartphones” category. We’re talking chalk-dusted warriors. The 20-year legends—starting in 2005 when flip phones ruled and Pluto was still a planet. Huge congrats to Jen Knox, Holly Klusmeyer, and Peggy Muegge. You all have earned your spot in the teacher hall of fame… or at the very least, a break room chair with your name on it.
And finally—cue the Gladiator music—we have a man who has reached 25 years. A full quarter-century. The lone sentinel. The wise one. The keeper of the ancient knowledge of VHS carts and overhead projectors. Please join me in bowing (lightly) to Mr. Brad Voth, who started in the year 2000 and has managed to keep his sense of humor, his job, and probably a stash of extra pencils no one's allowed to touch.
As we close out another successful school year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our students, staff, and families. It takes all of us working together to make Unity Schools such a special place, and this year has been another great example of what our community can accomplish.
To our students—thank you for your hard work, resilience, and positive energy. You continue to make us proud.
To our parents and families—your support means the world to us. From attending events to helping with homework and everything in between, your involvement is a key part of our students’ success.
And to our dedicated staff—thank you for the countless hours, unwavering commitment, and deep care you give each day. The work you do is noticed, appreciated, and makes a lasting difference in the lives of our students.
We are truly fortunate to be part of such a wonderful, supportive community—one where our children can grow, learn, and thrive.
Wishing everyone a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer!