Employees across the Douglas County School District were recognized for their service and dedication Tuesday and were bid farewell on their retirement.
Photo by Sarah Drinkwine.
Hired Aug. 25, 1995, Keith Lewis was among more than two dozen employees, who have dedicated decades to the Douglas County School District, honored Tuesday.
During a ceremony held before the school board meeting, Interim Superintendent Jeannie Dwyer recognized employees from facilities, security, transportation, staff, and teachers who are set to retire.
Throughout his career, Lewis was a P.E. teacher at Meneley, Gardnerville, and Piñon Hills elementary schools, Vice Principal at Carson Valley Middle School, Principal at Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School, HR Director, Superintendent, a softball coach at Whittell High School, and a basketball coach at Douglas High School.
“Throughout his remarkable 30-year career Keith has touched the lives of countless students, staff and families in the DCSD community,” said Dwyer. “He has earned the admiration of his peers and the community at large through his passion for fostering an environment that inspired both students and educators alike and ensuring every individual under his guidance had the opportunity to flourish.”
Nancy Brazeau was recognized for her 18 years has a paraprofessional and involvement with the PAC program.
“She has been a rock for students and helped build their confidence and independence and we thank her for all the great work she has given to each team she has worked with,” said Dywer.
Dana and Jason Kyle were recognized for their 29 years as teachers and mentors at Pau Wa Lu Middle school.
As a math teacher, Dana was committed to excellence and empowering students with “numerical power.” Beyond the classroom she was an advisor for student leadership and helped create a fun and inspiring middle school.
Jason taught history and was the yearbook teacher, who had an eye for detail and storytelling and guided students to not only weave together the school’s narrative, but to learn the art of preserving memories.
“His passions have enriched the lives of those around him and helped him to make meaningful connections with students,” said Dwyer.
After three decades of dedicated service to the Douglas County School District Lea Morgan retired from her role as security at Douglas High School. She also worked at Pau Wa Lu Middle School.
“During her 30 years she has been a constant presence on campus earning the respect of students, staff and parents,” said Dwyer. “Her professionalism, kindness and unwaivering commitment to ensure a safe and secure learning environment will be greatly missed.”
Dwyer read statements of gratitude for each of the retirees.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their years of outstanding service to our students, staff and community,” she said.
The 25 employees will retire from the district at the end of the school year.
Ariel Borgman, Jacks Valley Elementary
Nancy Brazeau, PAC Program
Stewart Burgard, Facilities
Steven Doebbeling, Facilities
Leslie Flynn, Gardnerville Elementary
Teresa Freitas, Douglas High School
Monica Hart, Minden Elementary
Debra Hollis, Pau Wa Lu Middle
Annette Kangas, District Office
Dana Kyle, Pau Wa Lu Middle
Jason Kyle, Pau Wa Lu Middle
Keith Lewis, District Office
Deborah Leon, Pau Wa Lu Middle
Sherry Mitchell, Douglas High School
Lea Morgan, school security Douglas High School
Vanessa Ozolins, Douglas High School
Lucy Pierce, Scarselli Elementary
Brian Rippet, Whittell High School
Kim Robinson, Pinon Hills Elementary
Alita Sack, Douglas High School
Amy Sando, Douglas High School
David Simone, Student Transportation
Teri Tatom, Carson Valley Middle School
Cary Tenpenny, Jacks Valley Elementary
Dale Vega, Facilities
Bill Witteman, Student Transportation
