School honors retirees including Cindy Cox and Carol Ruffelart for decades of service

The Northampton School Committee meeting on June 12, 2025, celebrated the remarkable contributions of several retiring educators, marking a heartfelt moment for the community. Among those honored were Cindy Cox, who dedicated 33 years as a library paraeducator, and Mark Baldwin, a social studies teacher at the high school for 28 years. The list of retirees also included principal Carol Ruffelart, who served for 25 years, and Anne Desmond, a fourth-grade teacher with 24 years of experience.

The ceremony was filled with applause and gratitude as each retiree was recognized for their years of service. The honorees included William Corbett, a grounds maintenance custodian for 27 years, and Paula Cleary, an elementary teacher for 25 years. Other notable mentions were Joanne Holman, who spent 23 years as a paraeducator, and Cheryl Minchin, who served 21 years in clerical roles.

The meeting also took a moment to honor Jane Rees, a clerical assistant who passed away, with her husband present to accept the recognition on her behalf. The atmosphere was one of celebration and reflection, as the community acknowledged the lasting impact these educators have had on students and the school system.

Following the retirement acknowledgments, the meeting transitioned to discuss school committee norms, signaling a shift towards future planning and governance. The heartfelt tributes underscored the importance of community and the dedication of those who shape the educational landscape in Northampton.