Auburn School Committee honors retiring staff from across the district

The Auburn School Committee used its June 4 meeting to publicly thank departing employees from across the district, recognizing classroom teachers, support staff and administrators for years of service.

Committee members and school leaders named and celebrated retirees from multiple schools. Mr. Wilson presented a tribute to Suzanne Haman, who was recognized for seven years at Auburn Middle School. East Auburn Community School honored June Simard for roughly 40 years of teaching; presenters said her career likely began in 1985 and praised her decades-long commitment. Fairview staff recognized Deborah Hammond (19 years at Fairview, 27 years in education), custodian Jimmy Hudson (24 years) and Martha LeVasseur (27 years). Sherwood Heights honored Denise Bowie (four years with Auburn, more than 25 years in education) and Susan Herrick (23 years). Walton staff recognized Stephanie Borcher. The superintendent also listed several retirees who were not present, including Sharon Pelletier (central office, nine years), Juliet Deja (adult education, 28 years), William “Bill” Cody (Edward Little High School teacher, 29 years), Richard Bissonnette (Fairview Crossing Guide, two years) and Doris Short (bus driver, 44 years).

Speakers framed the recognitions as district-wide contributions across classrooms and support roles; the committee gave each honoree a round of applause and the meeting record will include the recognitions.

Committee members noted retirees’ direct impacts on students and families and invited them to remain linked to schools as volunteers or substitutes where applicable. The meeting then moved on to other agenda items.