Schools
Bayless School District Awards Night Recognizes Service
The Bayless School District honored teachers, volunteers, and staff at its annual Recognition Night.
The Bayless community gathered in the Bayless High School auditorium Thursday night to honor retirees, teachers, staff and community members.
The evening began by recognizing retirees Bettie Downs, director of communications & technology, Patsy Hardy, a fifth grade teacher, Jane Keck, a high school secretary, Sharon Mueller, a third grade teacher, and Mary Sanchez, intermediate English language learners specialist. Friends and coworkers said goodbye though a video made by teacher Mike Hawkins and the students who run Bayless TV.
Bronco Awards, given to community members who go above and beyond for the district, were given to Dave Duy, Mike Hickey and Larry Pultman. Duy received his award for his work with the Bayless Academic Foundation, Hickey for his years of service as a district board member and Pultman for his work with the Bayless parade and carnival.
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In addition, every year, a previous Bronco Award winner is chosen to receive further recognition for their outstanding service over many years with the Triple Crown Award. This year’s Triple Crown recipient was Vickie Keener. Keener was once a student at Bayless, as were her children, and she decided she would like to serve as a substitute teacher for the district as well. Keener can also be seen at sports events, school plays and school concerts, cheering on the Bayless students. Keener was appreciated for her positive attitude, her school spirit, and the longevity of her service.
“The class graduating this year has had me since kindergarten,” Keener said. “Not many people have the same substitute for that long. And I keep telling the schools they’re not done with me yet.”
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District Staff Person of the Year was Kathy Bromeier, the accounts payable specialist. Teacher of the Year awards went to Lesley Sugg of the elementary school, Kelly O’ Connor of the intermediate school, Woody Babb of the junior high and Jon Robards at the high school.
Kelly O’Connor was also awarded the District Teacher of the Year award. O’Connor was honored for her dynamic and innovative teaching style as a reading specialist over the past five years.
“I feel so excited and honored,” said O’Connor, “especially because there are so many really wonderful teachers in our building.”