Keystone Oaks board honors four retiring educators

The Keystone Oaks School District recognized four employees who retire this week, the superintendent said at the board meeting.

Superintendent (S3) introduced Dana Gumerick, a first-grade teacher at Aiken Elementary with 34.5 years in the district; Carrie Karapandy, who taught music and served as elementary band director for roughly 29 district years (about 33 years in teaching overall); Michelle Lowers, a 30-year world language teacher and former department chair who led international student trips; and Kathy Morrow, a 35-year district educator noted for two decades as the high school’s English-as-a-Second-Language teacher.

The superintendent credited the four for long service and student-focused work, noting Gumerick’s adaptability to technology and Karapandy’s role across elementary buildings. "We want to thank all of them for their services," the superintendent said, and presented the board with a certificate from the Pennsylvania School Boards Association recognizing board service.

Why it matters: The remarks highlighted institutional continuity — the retirees together represent decades of classroom instruction and extracurricular leadership. The district said the departures will be acknowledged as personnel transitions during upcoming meetings.

What’s next: The superintendent and staff will include formal recognition on district calendars and present any related personnel recommendations at the next business meeting.