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New Richmond board spotlights retirees, honors decades of service
Summary
The New Richmond Exempted Village School District recognized multiple retirees — including Gary Combs (44 years), Donna Ealy, Kelly Heckert (29 years at New Richmond) and four Locust Corner educators who together contributed about 118 years — in a ceremony during the board meeting.
The New Richmond Exempted Village School District board paused its business to honor retiring staff members Tuesday, featuring remarks from building leaders who highlighted long careers and contributions to students.
"Gary has spent 44 years altogether in education," said Larry Koslowski, introduced as an associate principal, in a tribute to Gary Combs. Koslowski noted Combs spent 19 recent years in the district and cited a 99% graduation rate in his virtual‑academy work. Combs was unable to attend the meeting.
Dr. Jamie Kuntz recognized Monroe Elementary retirees, praising Donna Ealy for her classroom relationships and service and celebrating Kelly Heckert’s 29 years at New Richmond. "Donna brought warmth and patience, a genuine love for children that made our school a better place," Kuntz said.
Mr. Roach led recognition for four Locust Corner retirees, saying they "have given a collective 118 years of service to our school district" and then individually honoring Tim Cook (about 32 years teaching art), Todd Jackson (roughly 30 years, including recent work in PE), Jeff Durham (32 years) and Nicole Parker (about 34 years, long‑time union leader and mentor).
Organizers invited retirees and board members to take group photos before the board resumed its regular agenda. The superintendent and principals emphasized that retiree recognition will continue to appear on district social media and in staff communications.
The tributes emphasized long tenures, mentorship and the retirees' roles in sustaining district culture; the board and administrators framed the recognition as an opportunity to celebrate staff continuity and community ties.
