Board members began preparations early Friday morning for their Annual Appreciation Breakfast. This year’s event was an emotional time as they bid farewell to retiring friends and colleagues including Hendra Larson who taught sixth grade for 34-1/2 years and Shirley Lenz, who has been the second grade teacher for 33 years. Both were honored for their years of service to the district and were presented with plaques and commemorative cake plates etched with a picture of their school.

Retirement plans for Larson include travel, gardening and spending time helping her husband in his work for Missouri University though she admits she will probably be available for some substitute teaching. Lenz said she will be very busy in her retirement with the impending birth of her first grandchild. She also said she may consider substitute teaching as long as it doesn’t interfere with her grandma duties.

The annual breakfast is given at the end of each school year for appreciation to the staff for their service and dedication. Though no one could say for certain, most approximate this as being the 10th year for the celebration.