Summit Says Goodbye to Longtime School Employees

This story was written and reported by Mike Deak.

The end of the school year is always emotional, a time for sad goodbyes and anxious anticipation of the new faces that every September brings.

Those mixed emotions were on display at last Thursday’s board of education meetings when tributes were paid to retiring employees and a new position to help high school seniors in their college quest was announced.

The school district said farewell to Washington School teachers Natalie Cassidy and Carol Groote; Jefferson School secretary Diane Gleason; Jefferson School custodian John Cavallaro and business office staffer Nancy Bowkley.

Washington School Principal Lauren Banker praised the efforts and contributions made by Cassidy and Groote, both of whom taught in the school for more than a quarter century. Both teachers were lauded for their dedication to the students and for developing innovative classroom strategies.

Ron Poles, principal of Jefferson School, said Gleason, who worked 27 years at the school, was more than a secretary. He said she was the school’s community liaison.

“She went out of her way to help all members of the Jefferson family,” Poles said.

Poles also praised Cavallaro, who had worked at the school for a decade. The principal said Cavallaro, known as “Poppa John,” never hesitated to help a teacher or student with a project.

Assistant Superintendent Louis Pepe praised Bowkley for her 25 years of dedication in the business office.

“It was a great 25 years,” Pepe said. “Thank you.”

One of the new faces in the district starting in September will be Alison Grill in the newly-created position of high school college specialist.

Grill’s salary will be funded by a grant from the Summit Education Foundation, Superintendent Nathan Parker said.

Ken Shulack, director of human resources, said Grill will help high school seniors in their college search. Grill will help find the right college for the right kid, he said.

Grill holds a unique certification from UCLA in college guidance, he said.

“We’re very grateful for the Summit Education Foundation,” he said.

Also funded by a grant from the foundation will be the high school research liaison, Parker said. Filling that position will be Patricia Fontan.

The board also recognized the teachers of the year at the district schools. The teachers are Lynette Dorsey (Jefferson), Suzanne Shire (Wilson), Maryclare Poole (Brayton), Eleanor Wang (Franklin), Kathryn Knecht (Jefferson), Karen Harrison (Lincoln-Hubbard), Gina Raiteri (Washington), Deborah Schwarzmann (Middle) and Patricia Walsh (High School).