Retirement celebration for R-5 teachers

The Gallatin R-5 School District hosted a retirement reception in honor of Charlene Caraway and Gary Elbert on May 23. Doug Nichols was emcee for the event. Mrs. Caraway has been a cook at the Covel Elementary School for 29 years. She substituted prior to 1973. She replaced Lucille Dickinson who retired at the time. Mrs. Dickinson was on hand to congratulate Charlene on her retirement. Doug Nichols shared some lunchroom, kitchen humor as he dressed Mrs. Caraway in her lunch lady garb so he could feel more comfortable roasting her.

Karen Walker also shared special memories the two have had during the many years they worked together as a team, even dressing alike without consulting each other. Anita Malo and Cheryl Warren finished up the 29-year career with a whimsical song accompanied by a pot and pan band they dedicated to Charlene.

Gary Elbert will actually retire July 1, with 21 years of service. Mr. Elbert started working for the school system in 1975 when he began driving a school bus. In August 1980, he worked nights as a custodian, and two years later he took the position of maintenance supervisor. Mr. Elbert worked with many teachers, staff and co-workers throughout the years. He will continue driving a bus for the school district.

Mr. Elbert was also put in the hot seat as Doug Nichols told some humorous stories about him. That wasn’t all Gary was in for, as Dennis Croy came forward with one of his infamous poems, entitled “Ode to Gary,” which left Gary speechless and everyone laughing. Mr. Elbert plans on enjoying time on his farm and with his family, and more golf course time.

The following teachers and staff were acknowledged for their dedication to the school, as they will be leaving for various reasons. They are as follows: Rick Hughes, custodian; David Schoenick, music/band teacher; Doug Hubbard, history teacher; Kevin Hixson, coach; Carol Schmidt, fourth grader teacher; Sheila Taul, part-time copy aid and cook.

Mrs. Jennette Sprague was selected as Teacher of the Year by her peers. Jennette is the technology coordinator at the Gallatin R-5 High School. She was recognized for her dedication as a teacher, her willingness to help co-workers as well as her students, and for the many jobs she does behind the scenes. She is truly a caring person. She was presented a plaque by Barb Youtsey.