Retirees honored

One after another, Sharon Tabler wrapped her arms around her former colleagues and friends as they filed into the Springstead High School cafeteria.

For the more than 30 years Tabler has worked at Springstead, the now retired co-workers - from former custodians and maintenance workers to longtime educators - are people who once were a large part of her daily life.

And her mother, Eloise Tabler, would have also fit in with the retired group after having worked in the district and retiring in 1990 - if not for her death in 1995.

"It's kind of bittersweet. I know most of all these people here because I've seen them come and go," Tabler said.

During a Christmas luncheon Tuesday at the school, retired employees were met with warmth, laughter and applause as they were honored for their years of service.

One by one, Principal Susan Duval read their names and called them up to accept a plaque of appreciation while also telling a little about their history with the school.

Some who taught back in the late 1970s included stories of piling a group of students in his car and driving them to sporting events. Others have created legacies through their nicknames and homecoming skits. Others have updated educators about new technology as computers became more prevalent.

Through it all, crowd members laughed and a few even cried. Others let out sounds of disappointment as names of longtime teachers were called, but didn't claim their award due to their absence.

Duval said she and other staff members have wanted to honor Springstead retirees for some time. She said the idea came about to tie in their contributions with the school's history by giving them plaques made from the pine trees removed to make room for new renovations. On the plaque is also the architectural drawing of the school from the 1970s.

"This school is people. It was built by them and on their works," Duval said. "It's important to honor them and tie this back to our roots, which is what has made this school so successful."