Every year the district pauses to recognize the members of our community who have achieved service milestones and attained professional status. Sixty-eight individuals were honored at this year’s Staff Appreciation Awards Ceremony that took place at the Ottoson on May 16. The group included administrators, teachers, and staff members who work with young people at all levels in all of the Arlington schools.
Those receiving tenure recognition included six individuals who have been with the district for 20 years, six who have served APS for 25 years, and one whose tenure spans 30 years. Each one present stood as their name was read by Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Homan and they received a token of appreciation.
A total of 12 individuals are retiring and Dr. Homan called each one who was present forward so that they could be recognized by a colleague who had worked with them. The short speeches the co-workers delivered were full of heart-warming reflections. Each retiree left with the gift of a blanket.
Dr. Homan asked all attendees to read through the list of the 43 individuals who have achieved professional status this year. Professional status recognizes that the person has completed three full school years and returned in the fourth. These honorees are able to pick up a certificate that allows them to purchase a book.
The special day was enhanced by the contributions of three groups: Food Services provided delicious goodies, the Transportation Staff delivered all the gifts and programs, and the OMS Custodial Staff handled the set-up and clean-up. Collegial appreciation among those who attended was warm and strong. The district is grateful to all of these talented people for their dedication to our children, and for choosing the Arlington Public Schools in which to serve. Those who are departing will be missed, but they leave with many good wishes as they enter this new phase of their lives.