DCSD honors retiring employees at banquet
Superintendent Tim Newman congratulates one of the school district’s retirees, Paula Dana. At right is Dana’s principal at Darlington High School, Cortney Gehrke.
The Darlington County School District (DCSD) celebrated 33 of its most dedicated employees May 23 during the annual Retirement Ceremony and Banquet.
The retirees and their families filled the Mayo High School for Math, Science and Technology’s Conference Center for an evening of entertainment, reflection and food, provided by Hidden Treasures Catering.
Tim Newman, DCSD superintendent, praised the retirees for all the blood, sweat and tears poured into providing high-quality education for the children of Darlington County.
“I’m humbled by the expertise and compassion that you wonderful people represent,” Newman said. “The dedication that you have given to our students is to be commended. We celebrate together all of the memories and successes that have been achieved over the years, and we wish you all the best as you move into your retirement.”
The Mayo High School Phoenix Phame show choir performed several musical pieces before DCSD’s 2018-19 Teacher of the Year Laura Privette gave the keynote address. Privette likened the retirees to giants, upon whose shoulders stand those employees who will continue working to educate students moving forward.
The district presented each honoree with a plaque recognizing their work in the school district. The outgoing retirees represent a total of 787 years of service in the workforce, including 640 years in DCSD.