Caldwell County Schools honors over 60 retirees

Jun. 2—More than 60 Caldwell County Schools employees were honored for their decades of service at a retirement celebration on Wednesday at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center.

All the employees' careers added up to 1,601 years of service to Caldwell County Schools, said Dr. Bill Griffin, assistant superintendent of human resource services. Twenty of them had 30 or more years of service.

Each retiree was thanked by their principal and given a commemorative plaque by Superintendent Dr. Don Phipps.

Among those retiring is Vicky Ester, who has been an instructional assistant at Dudley Shoals Elementary School and has served 37 years.

"I thank God every day for the memories that will live in my heart," Ester said.

Tara Tamble Neel, a kindergarten teacher at Granite Falls Elementary School, has 33 years of service.

"Caldwell County School has been a remarkable place to work," she said. "I want to thank my school family for memories that I will cherish forever."

Darrell Pennell, chairman for the Board of Education, thanked all retirees for their years of service.

"We are blessed to have had you as part of Caldwell County Schools," he said. "It will be impossible to replace the commitment, experience and education you have given. You have had an unbelievable amount of influence on so many people and we truly appreciate all you've done for our children."

Griffin agreed.

"You've done an incredible job for Caldwell County Schools," Griffin said. "Thank you for your friendship and guidance over the years. We're gonna miss you."

Reporter Carmen Boone can be reached at 828-610-8723

Reporter Carmen Boone can be reached at 828-610-8723