Schools

‘You Really Have To Love It’: D135 Honors Longtime Employees

Orland School District 135 held its 22nd Celebration of Stars Thursday, paying tribute to staff who’ve put in between 10 and close to 40 years with the school district.

By Ben Feldheim
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April 21, 2012

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Elizabeth Allen (second from right) is joined by her family. She spent 38 years working within the school district, most of which at Prairie School as a 2nd grade teacher.

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Elizabeth Allen (second from right) is joined by her family. She spent 38 years working within the school district, most of which at Prairie School as a 2nd grade teacher.

Credit Ben Feldheim

Rita McGuire (second from right) is joined by her family, and was honored at the event after working 20 years in the school district as a psychologist. "It's a wonderful profession," she said. "I hope others have the wonderful experiences I had."

Credit Ben Feldheim

On the far right is Leslie Pawlowski from Center School who has worked at the district for 30 years.

Credit Ben Feldheim

This year's D135 Celebration of Stars had a baseball theme.

Credit Ben Feldheim

Each honoree had a jersey on the mirror leading into the event with the number of years he or she has spent with the school district.

Credit Ben Feldheim

Teachers, staff and administrators honored have worked between 10 and 38 years with the district.

Credit Ben Feldheim

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After 38 years spent working in District 135, Elizabeth Allen believes it really comes down to love.

When asked what advice she would give people just beginning a career in education, Allen, who spent a majority of her teaching years with 2^nd graders at Prairie School, said that the job isn’t easy, but it’s very rewarding.

“You really have to love it,” Allen said. “You also need a good support system, and you have to be dedicated to it. Know that it takes a lot of effort and hours.”

Allen was among several faculty, staff and administrators retiring at the end of the school year. Those leaving the field, and others who have put in at least a decade with the school district were honored Thursday during the 22^nd Annual Celebration of Stars at Silver Lake Country Club.

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Related Topics: Orland School District 135 and Retiring Teachers

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Cathy Zuro