Congratulations and Best Wishes! Thank you to our retirees for your hard work and dedication while in service with the Marysville School District.
Special Thanks Custodial Staff
Facilities Department Maintenance/Grounds Department
Annual
Retirement Celebration
Retirement Committee - Human Resources Sunnyside Nursery Print Shop Department
* * * A very special THANK YOU to all those who provided biographies and kind words for our retirees.
Service Center - Board Room Tuesday, May 16, 2017 4:30 - 6:30 PM
The Retirees (Organized by Location) Allen Creek Elementary Ginny Thorvilson - Teacher Ginny Thorvilson is retiring after 37 years in education. She began teaching 8th grade in the Clarkston School District. When moving to Marysville she taught kindergarten at St. Mary’s, kindergarten and 1st grade at Pinewood and then opened Allen Creek in 1993 teaching 1st and 2nd grades for the remainder of her career. When reflecting on her 37 years in teaching, Ginny says that there are so many highlights, but what stands out the most was making connections with the students most in need and seeing them become successful. She is masterful at building relationships. She also values the friendships with great colleagues that she has made over the years. Ginny’s classroom has a special environment and culture. Every day there was singing and poetry and a room filled with bears. Ginny nurtured the magic of childhood by keeping alive the special moments with events such as leprechaun visits and Jitter Juice on the first day. In her retirement she looks forward to spending more time with friends and family, especially her 4 grandchildren. She also wants to travel more, exercise, volunteer, take classes and become a Guardian ad Litem to continue her work to help kids in need…of course she will continue giving of her time and talents to kids, because that is who Ginny is! Janelle McFalls, Principal
Cascade Elementary Merilee Carlson - Paraprofessional Merilee Carlson moved to Marysville in 1985. She began volunteering at Marshall Elementary when her daughter was in third grade and her son was in kindergarten. Merilee began subbing as a paraeducator for Marysville School District, having the opportunity to sub at all of the elementary schools and MMS. After working as a substitute, she was then hired to work at SHoPP, Kellogg Marsh, and lastly Cascade. Merilee has thoroughly enjoyed her years working with children. As a paraeducator, Ms. Carlson has held numerous intervention groups, reinforcing important lessons from the general education teacher. While working with small groups, Merilee has gotten to know students especially well, igniting a spark that might help them understand content a little bit better. Ms. Carlson has also worked as a recess supervisor, keeping our kids safe on the playground and in the lunchroom. Merilee has years of service in coordinating our patrol program, creating
Transportation Mike Boomer - Mechanic Mike Boomer has worked as a mechanic for the Marysville School District for over 22 years. He works closely with the bus drivers in the early morning to make sure the buses are ready to go. A quick light bulb replacement, adding fluids or making a minor repair, keeps him moving from bus to bus. Mike often shares the importance of “being there for the driver” and doing what he can to start their day off well. Mike will be missed by all of us. After retiring, he and his wife, Karen, plan to travel and visit relatives in Florida and Minnesota. We wish you the best in your retirement! The Transportation Department
Terri Dawson - Bus Driver Theresa Dawson was a school bus driver for Marysville School District. In her 21 years of service, Terri safely transported students to and from school and on field trips. She was dedicated to student safety and received many annual safe driving awards. Terri represented the bus drivers as shop steward and was a department team leader. Terri retired in February 2017. Thank you for all your years of service and dedication to student safety. We wish you the best! The Transportation Department Kathy Gepner - Assistant Dispatcher Kathy Gepner was hired in Marysville as a school bus driver in March of 1979. She worked in the office as Assistant Dispatcher for over 19 years. Kathy was a scheduling specialist. She coordinated bus routes, early release schedules and field trips even when we had a bus driver shortage. At times, things were very challenging and Kathy was able to make it work. Kathy retired in December 2016 and had some great travel plans in place. Thank you Kathy, for all your years of service in Transportation. Enjoy retirement! The Transportation Department
Denise Lundberg - VersaTran Secretary Denise Lundberg has been a Head Secretary for the Marysville School District for almost 30 years. She started her career in 1988 as the Head Secretary at Marysville Junior High (1988-2003). After 15 years at MJH, Denise accepted a position in the Learning Support Department and worked there for 7 years (2003-2010). Since 2010, Transportation has had the privilege of having Denise as our Head Secretary. She has been a great support person for office staff, mechanics and drivers. Denise is retiring in August 2017. When retired, she plans to SEW, spend time with her 15 grandchildren, and travel more! Thank you, Denise. We wish you the very best. The Transportation Department
schedules for coverage and training our patrols to keep our students safe when crossing our busy Marysville streets. After retirement Merilee would like to volunteer at Cascade. She also wants to donate her time to volunteer at Women at the Well, a local day shelter for women and children who need assistance. Merilee dreams of taking a cruise and traveling. She looks forward to spending more time with her grandchildren, Julian and Coral, who live in Poulsbo. Merilee looks forward to this new chapter in her life. Thank you, Merilee, for the dedication you have given to your work in Marysville and at Cascade Elementary. Teresa Iyall-Williams, Principal Jill Garcia - Teacher Jill has been a lifelong educator. She began teaching in 1977 where she taught 3rd grade at Grace Academy in Marysville. She then had an opportunity to teach 5th grade and began her career with Marysville School District at Pinewood Elementary. After 8 years at Pinewood, she moved to Cascade where she worked as a 5th grade teacher, and for 17 years she has been Cascade’s librarian. Jill is retiring with 38 wonderful years as an educator. As Cascade’s librarian, Mrs. Garcia has taken a reader-centered approach to serving all students, grades K-5. She has observed our students, tested assumptions about reading interests, and has followed up with kids about their favorite books. Her genuine love of books is shared with kids when she can honestly look at individual students, some of them struggling readers and say, “I have just the book for you.” Mrs. Garcia promotes books across all ages, sharing current works by favorite authors through a systematic approach to read aloud by having book talks with students and adults, and hosting a lunch group of students to discuss awardwinning books. This approach has created an intellectual discourse like no other in a lunchtime discussion with kids. Mrs. Garcia has a way of presenting books in interesting and creative ways that have truly tapped into the reading interests of all of us at Cascade. When Jill Garcia retires she plans to spend more time reading, gardening, snowshoeing, traveling, and volunteering. She looks forward to many leisurely mornings over coffee and the crossword puzzle. She looks forward to sleeping in and not getting up in the morning when it’s still dark outside! We wish Mrs. Garcia well and thank her for her years of service to Cascade Elementary. Teresa Iyall-Williams, Principal Ken Wild - Teacher “Life is a journey, not a destination.” That quote sums up Ken Wild’s professional teaching experiences. Ken has been a 5th grade teacher at Cascade Elementary for the past 30 years. One of those 30 years (1995) was spent in Australia with the teacher exchange program. During Ken’s journey in Marysville: he has seen a lot of changes in superintendents, principals, curriculum, testing, etc.
Previously, Ken taught 5th grade in Pasco, and was also a migrant-influx teacher there. Before his formal teaching experiences, Ken was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Honduras as an environmental education specialist. Ken has been married to his wife, Laura, for 33 years. He has one son, Emmett, and one daughter, Eliza. Ken’s interests include hiking. He and Laura have backpacked most of the Pacific Crest Trail. In addition, Ken enjoys the journey of the open road by bicycle. He has ridden across the country twice. Other interests include sports, he has tried many sports, good at some, never great in any. Finally, Ken says he has enjoyed his teaching experiences and hopes to continue the journey of being a lifelong teacher and learner. We thank Mr. Wild for years of service to Cascade. We will miss you! Teresa Iyall-Williams, Principal
Cedarcrest Middle School Sandra Bordsen - Paraprofessional Sandi transferred to Cedarcrest after many years in other educational roles. While at Cedarcrest she supported a variety of classrooms. Mrs. B. provided assistance to students and staff on a daily basis with a flair and style that is uniquely her own. She has made a memorable and meaningful impact on everyone who has had the privilege of her guidance. Good Luck, Sandi, as you transfer to your new role. Stephanie Clark, Principal Deborah Hann - Paraprofessional Debbie's tenure at Cedarcrest Middle School began when the school first opened its doors. She was an essential member of the team that created the special education department that still exists today. Debbie's culinary skills provided hands on experience to help many students practice and learn kitchen skills for home use and future work experiences. Ms. Hann's artistic talents added a creative flair to everything she did. Good Luck Debbie as you experience many more open doors. Stephanie Clark, Principal
Kellogg Marsh Elementary Jacque Kallstrom - Paraprofessional Jacque Kallstrom is a long-time, invaluable member of the Kellogg Marsh staff. With her warm heart, listening ear, and kind hugs, hundreds of children have been blessed by Jacque’s time in education. She has spent countless hours (often one of the last ones to leave school) prepping for our students over the years. Jacque’s ability to calmly assess and assist students has helped
Ehrhardt teaches from her heart, bringing with her a passion for music and the love of watching her musicians embrace the music that brings joy to their lives. Mrs. Ehrhardt was honored for the 2016 year as the National Music Director for the entire Washington State and she was the only elementary director honored in the nation. We love you Brenda and you will be missed. The gift of music that you have given our students and staff will sing forever in our hearts. Brynn Marcum, Principal Deborah Gilmore - Teacher Deb Gilmore began her teaching career at Sunnyside Elementary in 1977 as Miss Huth serving in our special education program. During her time as a special education teacher, she served as a gymnastics coach for the Special Olympics and took her students to the world Special Olympics in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In 1983 Deb married her longtime husband, Larry, and became Mrs. Gilmore. Deb has inspired multi-generations of our Sunnyside families. She brought amazing programs and experiences to our community, such as the Apple Valley School simulation of an 1860 one room schoolhouse experience. Additionally Deb has played a key role in our HiCap program serving as a facilitator. Giving to other teachers and representing our Marysville Education Association has been an ongoing commitment throughout her career. Mrs. Gilmore inspires students to have a passion for reading and a love for learning. Deb is a long time resident of our Marysville community and both of her children graduated from MPHS as Valedictorians and National Merit Scholars. Deb has taught a variety of grades ranging from a multi age 2nd/3rd class, 3rd grade and most recently as a 1st grade teacher. Outside of school Deb is an avid soccer player, she has played on her team for over 20 years, meeting weekly to play indoor soccer. She loves gardening, time with her dogs, and spending time with her family. We love you Deb and Sunnyside will not be the same without you! Brynn Marcum, Principal
Totem Middle School Penny Nelson - Paraprofessional Penny has been a dedicated member of our Totem family for many years. Penny cares about student success and their future. With compassion and understanding, she has always been willing to go the extra distance to help any student in need. Working in classrooms, teachers have always depended on her to support learning. She does this by developing positive relationships in the interest of furthering student learning. Penny can often be seen taking the time to listen and laugh with students and staff alike. We are thankful for having Penny in our Totem family. She has been, and will continue to be, a valued member of our community. Totem Middle School Staff
pensive approach to difficult situations is his hallmark, and people seek his guidance because he makes them feel better and more hopeful. That is extraordinary. He will be retiring after 24 years in Marysville, and 38 total years in public education. He and his wife are expecting their first grandchild this fall; they will use the time to travel, be with family, and complete construction of his own Tollman Skiff. James Stevens, Executive Director of Special Education
innumerable students during years of recess. The growth in reading that has happened with Jacque’s care has been measured in a multitude of hearts (as well as on our growth charts). We will miss Jacque’s daily presence, but expect to see a lot of her as we are lucky enough to have her grandchildren in our school! Congratulations, Jacque! Enjoy your newly extended summer break! Eneille Nelson, Principal
Deb Hall - Occupational Therapist Deb Hall's motto is, "What's a day without a change of plans." At times her assignment has been at more than five schools a year. She has sewn many weighted blankets, vests, or stuffed animals to meet the needs of kids. She is always on the move. She is creative, energetic, fun, and thoughtful. Deb has always stepped up to help out whether it be covering a caseload at a building, working on a project, preparing for the following year, or sitting in on an interview team. She brightens our day with the beautiful flowers she plants outside the special education services office. We are so lucky to see tulips outside our doors in the spring, along with many other plants, through the seasons. In fact, over the summer I saw her from time to time coming by on her bike to water the plants. Deb put a lot of care into tending to these flowers, out of her kind heart, just wanting to spread a little joy. As an occupational therapist, Deb works in service to children always striving to determine what is needed to make one more student with disabilities able to access a less restrictive environment and feel some success. Deb has lived her motto and our mission each day, and has made a difference in the lives of many, many children. Ginger Merkel, Director of Elementary Special Education
Stephen Kelley - Custodian Steve Kelley has worked for Marysville School District for just over thirty years. He started his career working as a casual laborer. On January 13, 1986, Steve was hired on as a custodian at Liberty Elementary, where he worked until September 9, 1995. Steve was recently promoted to a lead custodian at Kellogg Marsh. During Steve’s time here in Marysville he helped out throughout the district as a summer maintenance person. Steve has been a valued member of the staff and the community of Kellogg Marsh. Steve is quiet and steady and creates an atmosphere where staff and students enjoy being. He has spent half of his life working with people and making a difference. While we know Steve can never be replaced, we want him to know that he will be missed and we wish him the very best in his retirement. James Long, Custodial Manager
Sunnyside Elementary Brenda Ehrhardt - Teacher Brenda Ehrhardt has served Sunnyside Elementary for 12 years, enriching our students’ lives with music. Prior to working in Marysville, Brenda served Arlington, Shoreline, and overseas as an educator for the Department of Defense in Germany. In her role as a music teacher, Brenda has influenced thousands of our students to find their passion for the arts. Students are inspired by Brenda to find their inner artist through daily music instruction, before school choir, and our instrumental choir. When our students move into middle school they can count on seeing Mrs. Ehrhardt supporting at events. Her genuine care for each student continues lifelong. Brenda takes our students well beyond our basic curriculum; teaching music theory, composition and providing our students with incredible music field trips. Through the dedication of Mrs. Ehrhardt our students have been invited to sing in multiple events such as: participation in the Seattle Symphony Link Up program, singing the National Anthem for the Mariners and Silvertips games. Brenda thinks outside the box and has been able to fund many experiences and resources for our students through her commitment to writing and applying for grant funding. Mrs.
Barb Murphy - Paraprofessional Barb has been an exceptional Paraprofessional. She has worked in the Resource Room with children with a variety of Special Needs. She worked very well with every child and understood their special needs both academically and socially. Barb provided academic instruction and social support to children based on their individual needs. She always had a very positive way with the students she worked with. She had a heart for every child she worked with and made them feel special. Barb always maintained a positive attitude with students and staff. Barb worked well with Special Needs Students and took a special interest in understanding their special needs. Barb worked in the Resource Room at Kellogg Marsh for 21 years and will be missed tremendously! She is loved by staff and students. Debbie Whitfield, Teacher Terri Power - Health Room Assistant Terri Power has been the kind heart in Kellogg Marsh's Health Room for several years. Before that, she worked in the Health Room at Quil Ceda Elementary. Terri comes to work each day with a soft smile and a gentle approach that makes even our youngest students feel more at ease in the Health Room and will be very missed as she retires. Terri is always ready for anything that walks through her door and has been a vital part of our office staff. We wish Terri the
ultimate in happiness and fulfillment as she retires to spend time with her family and beloved four legged friends. Eneille Nelson, Principal
Liberty Elementary Cathy Elkington - Teacher For nearly 30 years, Cathy has given her time and love to the education profession. For the past 25 years, Liberty’s staff, students, and families have had the gift of Cathy’s dedication to her craft. Walking into Cathy’s classroom, whether it was small group intervention or a whole classroom, it was quite evident that she cared about students and had high expectations for them socially and academically. One was always in awe of how she could teach a lesson with such passion that students would be hanging off of their seats or leaning forward with their elbows on their knees in anticipation of a story she was reading. It was a constant to see her bend down to listen to students or coach into them to support their learning and thinking. We will truly miss her saying, “honey” before giving some sage advice or praising students for their hard work. Cathy is truly one of a kind. Gloria Henderson, Principal LuAnne Pentecost - Teacher LuAnne came to Marysville after 20 years of teaching in Ohio and we are glad that she made her way to our district, where she has been since 1999. She taught at Tulalip Elementary, Quil Ceda Elementary, and Quil Ceda Tulalip Elementary before coming over to Liberty two years ago. When one walks into LuAnne’s class, it is very evident that she loves what she does and puts everything she has into it. Her positivity, leadership, deep knowledge of students, and her stance as a consummate learner have impacted Liberty greatly. After nearly 35 years in education, there is no doubt that the constellation of great teachers will miss one of its stars, but there are many bright lights that will remain by way of the students who have been touched by her dedication as their teacher. Gloria Henderson, Principal Cathy Russell - Librarian Cathy has been at the core of great literary experiences at Liberty Elementary for the entirety of her teaching career (she was at Quil Ceda Tulalip part time during the 2013-2014 school year). For 21 years, she taught intriguing lessons, recommended books and thematic ideas to students and staff, and infused a love of reading into the hearts of countless kids. Besides her library focus, Cathy became an advocate for positive behavior support and social skills advocacy at Liberty, which positively impacted our students. Cathy will truly be missed. Gloria Henderson, Principal
Shoultes Elementary Rhonda Gresli - Paraprofessional Rhonda Gresli has been at Shoultes for 26 years. She began as a PTA parent when her students attended Shoultes and has stayed with us ever since. She makes sure students are safe on the playground, works with our English Language Learners, and supports students in growing their reading skills. This year Rhonda has organized and supervised our student patrols. Rhonda’s organization and creativity are evident throughout her work. Whether it is a picture of patrol students, gift baskets, a unique presentation of a lesson, or a beautiful display of delicious baked goods for the staff, the commitment and care Rhonda puts into what she does is readily recognizable. Numerous students and families have benefited from Rhonda’s work and their lives changed because Rhonda was present with them. We thank you sincerely for your service and wish you the best of times in your retirement. Lynn Heimsoth, Principal Barbi Thornlund - Teacher There is no one like Barbi Thornlund. To know Barbi is to love her and be loved by her. Ask anyone who has been at Shoutles during her 39 years there and you will hear the same thing, Barbi is kind, humorous, and has a huge heart that is visible to all around her. Those are great qualities for an educator! In addition she has extraordinary instructional skills and an unparalleled ability to connect with students and families. In her years at Shoultes, Barbi taught Kindergarten, 3rd grade, led our Title program, and was a TOSA. One of her colleagues says, “She is fiercely loyal, not only to her students and family, but to the staff at Shoultes. She loves to take care of us all. Barbi always makes a joke to try to shed a little happiness when times are tough.” In addition to educating students at Shoutles, Barbi found love with her husband Dave Thornlund. He was a custodian and she a young teacher. She asked him to move some furniture for her and told him she’d bring him a bottle of wine. He replied that she needed to share it with him and the rest is history. On behalf of all the students, families, and colleagues whose lives you bettered, we thank you for your dedication and wish you the most beautiful and enjoyable retirement possible! Lynn Heimsoth, Principal
Special Education Tom Freeburg - School Psychologist Maya Angelou said that people will forget what you said, but never how you made them feel. School Psychologist Thomas Freeburg is a perfect example of this. His calm, supportive, humorous, and
Thank you, Mrs. Ronk, for being a positive note in the lives of our children! Kathy Thornton, Principal
Quil Ceda Tulalip Elementary Linda Marshall - Paraprofessional Linda’s career began with Marysville School District in September 1990. She received training to become a school bus driver. Linda served in this capacity for 24 wonderful years. During this time she built amazing relationships with coworkers, parents and most especially students. In 2004, Linda became a paraprofessional and was assigned to Quil Ceda-Tulalip Elementary. During this time she supported many students in becoming more proficient in both reading and math. Linda has done a great job supervising large groups of students at lunch and recess. Linda has made a significant contribution to the community and will be missed by students and staff. Cory Taylor, Principal
Service Center Mike Edenholm - Maintenance Mike Edenholm began his career with Marysville School District in 1982. He was originally hired as a custodian at Marysville Pilchuck High School. In 1983, Dan transitioned over to the Maintenance Department as a Maintenance Technician - Carpenter. He worked in this role until 1990, at which time he was promoted to a Maintenance Lead. It was in this role that Mike worked the remainder of his almost 35 year career with the District. Mike was probably best known for his high quality carpentry skills, his love of the banjo, and his joy for bowling. Greg Dennis, Facilities Supervisor Dan Moore - Grounds Dan Moore began his career with Marysville School District in 1992. He was originally hired as a custodian at Cedarcrest Middle School. He also served as a custodian at Shoultes and Kellogg Marsh Elementaries, as well as Marysville Middle School. In 1997, Dan transitioned over to the Grounds Department. He worked as a Grounds Technician until 2013, at which time he was promoted to the Grounds Lead. It was in this role that Dan worked the remainder of his 25 year career with the District. Dan was probably best known for his high level of customer service, his gift of gab, and his baritone singing voice. Greg Dennis, Facilities Supervisor
Karen Wright - Teacher Karen is a truly exceptional and extraordinary educator. Her passion for educating youth, phenomenal teaching skills, excitement, and growth mindset are all imbued so deeply into her soul that everyone can see—even if they’ve known her for a short amount of time—that she has been this way since the day she set foot into a classroom nearly 39 years ago. Every staff member and principal at Liberty Elementary for the past 33 years has been better because Karen has been a constant light, model of perseverance, cheerleader, and advocate. Her retirement will be tremendously felt, yet what she has accomplished and the countless people she has impacted at Liberty Elementary and throughout her entire career as an educator will ripple beyond, into future generations. Gloria Henderson, Principal
Marshall Elementary Nancy Stokes - Occupational Therapist In Nancy's 35 years at Marshall and the Marysville School District, she has made an enormous impact on the lives of students and staff. She has taught children to swim, walk, write, and be independent in their mobility. She has given herself to the betterment of others in numerous ways. She has an amazing heart for students and their achievement. If you ever need something, Nancy probably has at least one of whatever it may be. She is willing to help in anyway she can, whether you are a student, staff or family. In her spare time, she gives to the disabled community with Outdoors for All. She spends many weekends on the slopes working to teach people with a disability how to ski. She loves to see people experience something that they never thought was possible or were too afraid to try. She is involved each year in helping Eagles Wings put on celebrations for adults with disabilities. Nancy does so much for our Marshall Elementary students and the Marysville School District as a whole. She is beyond generous with her time and continued support for the families that she serves. We are so thankful for Nancy and will miss her dearly. Kelly Sheward, Principal Sue Johnston - Teacher Here is how it all started…..One day I was subbing for John Waldrop when he was at Pinewood. He was interviewing people to be his half time partner. Another teacher told him he should interview me and that started my Marysville career! Eventually I got my administrative certificate, worked at Pinewood as the Building Assistant, then as a TOSA. As a half time TOSA I also was the Intervention Specialist, a 1st grade pull out teacher, a 4th grade teacher, and a 3rd grade teacher - all half time. Then I got picked for the planning team for Quil Ceda.
When we opened the building and the Co-op was moved to that building I joined the Co-op. I had helped with the plan for the program while at Pinewood because that was one of the buildings where it started (along with Marshall). So at Quil Ceda I was first going to teach 4th grade but the numbers weren’t there for a full class so I taught a 4th/5th split and then took those kids to a 4th/5th/6th. Then back to 4th grade. Eventually we all moved to Marshall and that’s where it ends. During my Marysville career I have also been an MEA rep forever, helped with staff development, and was Co-chair for the Co-op for 2-1/2 terms. That’s about it! ---Sue Johnston We wish Sue the best in her retirement and will surely miss her enthusiasm, professionalism, and fun loving way of teaching! Thanks for your years of service. Kelly Sheward, Principal
Marysville Mountain View High School Jay Belan - Teacher After teaching for 5 years in California, Jay went into business for 13 years and then returned to teaching by working in the afternoon contract learning program at the Alternative High School in 1997. He enjoyed teaching so much, he took a day position as a Business teacher when it came open. His calm demeanor and sense of humor has helped to connect many students who had not found success in traditional high school programs. He shared many stories of his experiences in Marketing and Business and helped students learn how to advocate for themselves through Leadership class competitions through the Regional Career Leadership Challenge Event, where students placed very well. Jay and his family (2 Marysville grads) and his wife Lynn, volunteer around the world, including work in Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina and in Costa Rica, Thailand, Mexico, and other exotic places. They also provide service to communities locally and abroad, when time allows. He enjoys biking with his family and friends and is looking forward to spending more time with his family, planning for two weddings and continuing to serve God and traveling around the world. Dawn Bechtholdt, Principal Judith Whitman - Teacher Judy has worked in public school for 37 years, as a teacher in Family and Consumer Sciences. During her time in Marysville, she taught classes at the Alternative High School that helped students learn how to live independently on their own. Courses in food preparation, independent living, child development, leadership, and art provided hands-on learning opportunities for non-traditional students. For 12 years, she taught a GRADS program and worked with daycare staff to serve young parents and their children, many of whom she also taught as high school students. She had several FCCLA teams win at the state level and two student teams also won GOLD (the highest honor) at National Competition within the past 5 years. Because of her genuine care
and concern for the future success and gifts in each of her students, Judy remains connected with many of her former students to this day, who send updates and thank her regularly for all she has taught them. She will join her husband Emil in retirement. They have plans to babysit grandchildren and take more trips to exotic beaches and road trips around the country and to Lake Chelan. Dawn Bechtholdt, Principal
Marysville-Pilchuck High School Gordon Erdman - Teacher Gordy Erdman is retiring from Marysville Pilchuck High School after 33 years of teaching at the school, and 38 years as an educator overall. Gordy graduated from Washington State University in 1976. Before coming to Marysville, Gordy taught for a few years in a variety of districts in the Olympia area. One of those jobs included a year of teaching and coaching at Timberline High School where our very own Pete Lundberg was teaching and, along with Gordy, was also a member of the social studies department. For Gordy’s first 13 years at MPHS, he taught special education classes, for that last 20 years he has been a member of the Social Studies department where he has served as the department chair for the last several years. Gordy is a very respected teacher, because of his extraordinary commitment to organizing or attending hundreds of student events, the students have repeatedly voted him the “tireless teacher” award recipient. Gordy’s presence at MP will be greatly missed!! Rob Lowry, Principal
Pinewood Elementary Terri Ronk - Teacher Terri Ronk has been a true cornerstone for children at Pinewood. Terri has put her heart and soul into Pinewood’s music program. She values the strengths of each student and recognizes that children excel in different areas. Many who do not show academic strength shine brightly under Terri’s wings. Terri has helped to set the stage for traditions at Pinewood. Each grade level has had its own set of musical trademarks throughout the years. These traditions have all become part of the Pinewood Way. Terri takes pride in reaching out to our community. She has directed and refined our Pinewood Choir, braved hockey night at the Silvertips, organized and performed in the All City Choir performances, and each spring has taken many recorder players on field trips to Benaroya Hall. Terri expects excellence, hard work, and good behavior from her musicians, and instills in her students a value of country, history and patriotism that children carry with them long after they leave Pinewood.