By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The USD 428 Board of Education took time Monday night to recognize employees that were celebrating career milestones. The Milestone Program is based on five-year increments, recognizing years of service of licensed and classified employees.
The highest years of service acknowledged was 35 years from Park Elementary School custodian Joseph Messersmith and Great Bend Middle School teacher Gary Pinkall.
"Thank you (school board) for all of your service," said Pinkall. "It's much appreciated. It's been a wonderful time here. I thank all of you for all you have done for me."
USD 428 celebrated 91 staff members for milestones, representing 1,155 years of combined service. Superintendent Khris Thexton and the district awarded each employee with a gift in appreciation.
"I want to thank you all for giving your time and energy to our district," said Thexton. "We appreciate everything you do. If there is anything we can be of a service to you, please let us know."
35 Years
Joseph Messersmith
Gary Pinkall
30 Years
Randy Beck
Pamela Elsen
Cathie Haberman
Michelle Moore
25 Years
Barbara Austin
JoAnn Blevins
Marlene Cook
Annalee Crotinger
Cindy Damm