Employee Recognition Dinner

Last night we took the opportunity to say thank you to many of our colleagues and goodbye to a select few.

The 22nd annual employee recognition dinner was a huge success.  The room was packed.  The Mike Sullivan band was absolutely incredible.  And a number of special people were recognized for the years of committed service to our district.

Laura Rico, Steve Harris, Yu-Fen Chiang Harris, Betty Harris, Debby Hakola, Dawn Heeren, and I were at the ABCFT table and it was obviously a very special night because Laura and Steve are retiring.  Steve had to do double duty because not only was he recognized as one of the retirees but he was one of the masters of ceremonies as well.

I'm sorry that I can't remember every ABCFT member and list them here but we were well represented at every table and from every site and it was exciting to be around so many good friends in such positive surroundings.

Our retirees chapter had a table right next to us and it was exciting to see so many familiar faces who are still working hard to support teachers and their union.

The dinner served as a reminder of what a partnership this district and our mission truly is.  Members of every bargaining unit were honored for their years of service (our own Debbie Hakola and Karen Rogers were present for their 15 year citation) and the camaraderie that was expressed by the different tables of specific sites mixing with family and friends to support and cheer on their loved ones was an inspiring moment for this newly elected officer. 

Lines of people from every unit gathered at the base of the stage to hug and congratulate the retirees.  Different generations too; I got to stand next to my mom to hug Laura after her retirement was announced.  I do want to let Laura in on a little secret though.  Steve's speech for her noted that she wanted to listen to jazz, which came as no surprise, but also that she wanted to watch daytime reality TV to see if it was as bad as everyone said, which was the first I had ever heard of such an interest.  Sad to say, I've watched it, and it just isn't that good!  Save your time, Laura, and stick with the jazz.

Congratulations again to Laura and to Steve and to every retiree.  Thank you to all of you and to all of the those who were honored for their specific years of service.  Many of the biographical sketches noted various exciting plans for the future but many also noted the pride with which they have made student achievement their goal for these many years.  I look forward to building on the gains that these individuals have made for our district in the coming years.

Thanks to all of those who were able to share it with us on Thursday night and we'll look for the rest of you next year.

Ruben Mancillas