CHEROKEE – May 13, 2026 was the last day of the 2025-2026 school year with an early release for USD 247 Southeast. That afternoon, approximately 100 people attended the Employee Recognition Luncheon to visit, eat some delicious lunch and tasty dessert, and to celebrate fellow employees.

Years of Service Awards

5 Years: Mollie Book, Susie Coltrane, Phil Hobbs, Jane Hollenbeck, Lori Vitt, and Maya White

(Not pictured: Mollie Book, Phil Hobbs, and Susie Coltrane)

15 Years:  Trish Wyckoff | 30 Years: Tammie Hall

Special Recognition

Jeanna Jones, interlocal paraprofessional, retired this year and was recognized for her 16 years of service with USD 247. Congratulations, Mrs. Jones! You will be missed!

Natalie Collins was recognized for her 22 years of dedication to USD 247. Mrs. Collins will be teaching in the Topeka area to be closer to her kids and grandkids. We wish her well!

KU Award Recipient

Our KU Award Recipient this year was Mary Colvin. This award honors colleagues who have served as a teacher of youth for 25 years.

(Mrs. Colvin was unable to attend.)

Classified Customer Service Award

Any employee (certified or classified) can nominate any classified employee for this award. Nominees this year are: Samantha Mays, Linda Lane, Lou Powell, Holly Tavernaro, De Hamblin, Britney Brakebill, and Lynsey McMinn.

Recipients of the 2025-2026 Customer Service Award
Linda Lane and Holly Tavernaro
Congratulations!

Retirements

There were three USD 247 retirements this year: Jane Hollenbeck – 5 years, Gary Leiker – 31 years, and Ellen Harrington – 37 years. They will be greatly missed, and we wish them the very best!

Here are a few more photos of the afternoon luncheon. A good time was had by all!