Judy Rapp, left, principal at Jardine Technology Magnet and Gloria Martin, principal at Gardiner Elementary are retiring with 22 and 31 years of service to the district.

Wichita Public Schools honors employees for service

Minnie Louise James, para at  Dunbar Early Childhood Center, is retiring after serving the district for 27 years.

The Wichita Public Schools honored its retirees and long time employees during a special banquet held on Monday, May 5 at the Hyatt Regency Wichita.

In 2008, 179 employees are retiring from the Wichita Public Schools, including Superintendent Winston Brooks, with a combined total of more than 3,981 years of service to the district.

Shawn Chastain, Executive Coordinator of Fine Arts, was the Master of Ceremonies. Superintendent Winston Brooks and Board of Education President Connie Dietz thanked the employees for their hard work and their dedication to

Michael Heppler, Head Custodian at Chisholm Trail Elementary, is retiring after 18 years of service.

improving the lives of students and the community.

Each retiree who attended the banquet was recognized individually and handed a rose by a Board of Education member.

Employees who have worked for the district for 20 and 30 years were also recognized for their years of service. There are 164 employees who have worked in the district for 20 years and 42 employees who have worked in the district for 30 years.

The Wilbur Middle School Chamber Orchestra performed as guests entered the banquet room. Jefferson Elementary’s Over the Rainbow Dance Troupe and the Heights High School

Jefferson Elementary’s Over the Rainbow Dance Troupe performed during the banquet. Photos by Susan Arensman

Madrigals performed during the banquet. The Mead Middle School Leadership Cadets presented the colors at the beginning of the banquet and assisted BOE members when they handed out the roses.

Photos of the event, along with a special publication listing the retirees and 10-, 20- and 30-year longevity recipients can be found by clicking here.

May 6, 2008