On June 16, the Garden City School District held its annual retirement ceremony, honoring this year’s retirees and celebrating their remarkable careers of service. Collectively, the retirees dedicated 897 years to the district, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students, families and colleagues.

The ceremony began with a special performance by the Garden City High School Vocal Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Ms. Alexandra Frazzetto. The ensemble performed two songs in honor of the retirees before Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha addressed those in attendance.

“Each of you has left a lasting imprint on this district,” Dr. Sinha said. “Long after students have completed lessons and assignments, they remember how you made them feel. Thank you for your dedication, compassion and for choosing Garden City to be your home.”

Board of Education Vice President Ms. Kristen Pappas then offered remarks. “On behalf of the Board of Education, we are grateful for the commitment and care you have brought to your role each day,” Ms. Pappas said. “We are deeply appreciative of all you have given to our schools and our community.”

The ceremony continued with comments from building principals and department leaders who reflected on each retiree’s contributions, accomplishments and the positive influence they had on students and staff throughout their careers. Congratulations to the following retirees:

 

Garden City High School

• Vincent Pane, science teacher, 31 years
• Jim Cotter, science teacher, 28 years
• James Dunleavey, science teacher, 28 years
• Diana Young, math teacher, 29 years
• Mark Quigley, social studies teacher, 25 years
• Antonietta Gutierrez, world language teacher, 18 years
• Catherine Burdi, teacher aide, 20 years
• Marilyn Tierney, senior stenographer, 17 years
• James McCrann, music teacher, 32 years
• Kathleen Strunk, math teacher 27 years
• Lee D’Elia, teacher aide, 26 years
• Veronica Murphy, teacher aide, 8 years

 

Garden City Middle School

• Charles Menges, social studies teacher, 35 years
• Elizabeth Cleary, special education teacher, 28 years
• Vicky Linardos, world language teacher, 21 years
• Romulo Samayoa, cleaner, 12 years

 

Stewart and Stratford School

• Claudia Trousdell, elementary education, 28 years
• Regina Lehan, elementary education, 36 years
• Laura Burke, physical education, 25 years
• Linda Degen, teacher aide, 4 years
• Robin Holman, teacher aide, 25 years

 

Hemlock, Locust and Homestead School 

• Tara Santucci, elementary education, 38 years
• Lisa Soviero, typist clerk, 25 years
• Darlene Michon, teacher aide, 20 years
• Kevin Ayers, head custodian, 10 years
• Kristine Justino, elementary education, 32 years
• Linda Polant, elementary education, 23 years

 

Transportation

• Linda Greene, supervisor, 39 years
• Linda Derlath, bus attendant, 22 years
• Nancy Wellbrock, bus attendant, 21 years
• Michael O’Brien, bus driver, 16 years
• Jean Paul, bus driver, 3 years
• Michael Pinto, bus driver, 25 years
• Fernando Gomez, bus driver, 10 years

 

Pupil Personnel Services

• Susan Schweitzer, senior typist clerk, 31 years
• Goldie Hinton , account clerk, 10 years
• Linda Caperna, speech therapist, 22 years

 

Administration

• Dr. Suzanne Viscovich, principal of Homestead School, 32 years
• Dana DiCapua, assistant superintendent for business and finance, 13 years

 

As they begin this new chapter, the Garden City School District thanks this year’s retirees for their years of service and commitment to excellence. Their contributions have helped shape the district and will continue to be felt for years to come. Congratulations and best wishes on a well-earned retirement.