The Meade School District celebrated years of dedication, achievement, and service during the annual Staff Retirement and Recognition Banquet held Thursday, May 21, at the Sturgis Brown High School West Gym. The event honored retiring staff members, employees reaching service milestones, and individuals receiving special recognitions throughout the district.
The banquet recognized nine retirees whose combined years of service have made a lasting impact on students and the community. Honorees included Coleen Keffeler, Kim Cunningham, Theresa Hanzlik, Janis-Mathis Anderson, Julie Meyer, Gary Nelson, Amy Richards, Laura Sandness, and Joan Wilson. Their years of service ranged from 12 to 37 years dedicated to education and student success.
Staff members celebrating milestone years of service were also honored during the ceremony. Employees recognized ranged from 10 to 35 years of service across schools and departments throughout the district. Those recognized included teachers, administrators, support staff, and coaches who continue to make a difference in the lives of Meade School District students.
Congratulations to Deb Cano of Sturgis Brown High School who was named Meade School District Teacher of the Year, while Tina Brengle of Curriculum & Technology earned Employee of the Year honors as Support Staff of the Year. Additional building-level winners from schools across the district were recognized for their commitment and leadership.
Several staff members were recognized for outstanding accomplishments and statewide honors during the past year. Emily Young, band teacher at Sturgis Brown High School, received the Spirit of a Scooper Award for the high school and was also honored as the American Legion Post 33 Teacher of the Year.
The banquet concluded with remarks from district leadership and school board members, thanking employees for their dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on students and the Meade School District community.