Yukon Public Schools honors retirees for 291 years of dedicated service

The Yukon Public Schools held a heartfelt retirement celebration on May 7, 2025, honoring a group of dedicated educators who have collectively contributed 291 years to the field of education, with 198 of those years spent within the Yukon district. The event was marked by emotional tributes and warm congratulations from colleagues, family, and community members.

The ceremony began with an introduction by a district representative, who invited retirees to the front for recognition. The first honoree, Vicky Bonnie, was celebrated for her 30 years in education, with 29 years spent in Yukon. She expressed excitement for retirement, looking forward to spending time with her grandson and volunteering at the 2028 Olympics.

Next, Janice Bridal was acknowledged for her 31 years of service, during which she held various roles including cafeteria hostess and paraprofessional. She plans to embark on a family cruise and explore national parks in her retirement.

Trudy Dixon, who has spent 13 years in Yukon as a paraeducator, shared her fond memories of the students she has helped and her plans to volunteer in her free time. Tanya Taylor, with 34 years in education and 28 years in Yukon, reflected on her time at Shidek Elementary, describing it as a second home. She looks forward to gardening and spending quality time with family.

Sharla King, retiring after 15 years in Yukon, plans to travel, including a trip to Jamaica. Lastly, Donella Mashaw, who has dedicated 11 years to Yukon, shared her joy in making lasting connections with students and families, and her plans to care for her elderly parents and mentor students in the future.

The meeting concluded with a collective acknowledgment of the retirees' significant contributions to the Yukon community, emphasizing the impact they have made on countless students and families. The district looks forward to hearing about their future adventures and the legacies they leave behind.