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Rescue Union board honors eight retiring employees, citing 118 years of combined service
Summary
The Rescue Union School District recognized eight retiring employees at a special board ceremony, with leaders and colleagues praising long service across multiple elementary schools and departments; several retirees were honored for multi-decade careers.
The Rescue Union School District recognized eight employees for retirement at a board-hosted celebration, with Superintendent Kristan introducing tributes and colleagues offering personal remembrances.
Kristan, the district superintendent, opened the event by describing the evening’s format and noting that six of the eight retirees were present. Kristan said the group represented “118 years” of combined service and invited principals and colleagues to speak about each honoree.
Vera, an administrator who worked alongside the first honoree, praised Natalie as a founding teacher at Pleasant Grove, saying, “She’s seen buildings added, plants come and go, trees cut down, solar come up.” Vera added that Natalie had been “a critical friend” during the past seven years and encouraged her to consider substitute teaching after retirement.
Colleagues celebrated Bara (spelled variously in the transcript as Bara/Barra) for a long career at Green Valley, including 14 years teaching in San Jose before joining the district and 25 years at Green Valley. A presenter noted Bara helped launch transitional kindergarten at the site and brought hands-on learning to students, including incubating chicks and, this year, raising ducks.
Suzette Hubbard was recognized for energizing students around math and for classroom creativity, from games that teach probability to themed learning activities. A district speaker said colleagues will “really miss you tremendously.”
The board also acknowledged Jenna Holcomb and Linda Stern, described as RSP aides, for their classroom support and dedication to student success. Molly, principal at Jackson, introduced Julie Carruth, a third-grade teacher whom she called “a very, very dedicated member of her third-grade team,” and wished her well in retirement.
Larissa Stewart, principal at Lakeview, honored Katrina Valencia, who she said had served 19 years in the Rescue Union School District at three elementary schools and would be relocating to Finland with her husband. Stewart quoted former students who described Katrina as kind and supportive.
Jeremiah Patterson, the district’s facility director, praised Halacio, a grounds utility technician who the transcript says served seven years, for maintaining campus grounds and working in difficult weather. Patterson said Halacio’s work kept campuses safe and presentable for students and staff.
Kristan closed the formal remarks, invited attendees to refreshments and photos, and noted the ceremony was recorded for later viewing on YouTube. The board then adjourned the meeting.
No formal votes or policy actions were taken during the recognition event.
