Surrey Schools Host Dinner to Honor 243 Retiring Employees

A special dinner took place on November 20, 2024, in Surrey, Canada, to celebrate the contributions of 243 employees who retired from the Surrey school district during the 2023-2024 school year. The event recognized the dedication and service of principals, teachers, clerks, education assistants, custodians, and facilities staff, some of whom had spent decades in the district.

Among the honorees was an individual who began their career with Surrey Schools in 1978, marking an impressive 47 years of service. The retirement dinner served as an opportunity for the district to express gratitude to its retirees. “The retirement dinner is our way of saying thank you – thank you for your dedication, care, and commitment to student learning through your time with us,” said Gary Tymoschuk, chair of the Surrey school board and host of the annual celebration.

During the evening, Tymoschuk highlighted the significant impact these educators and staff members had on the school communities. “The board wishes to express our gratitude for the positive influence that each of you have left on so many students and staff throughout the years,” he remarked.

Evening Highlights and Acknowledgements

The event was held at the Resource Education Centre and included a territorial acknowledgement delivered by Andrew Holland, the deputy superintendent. The evening featured congratulatory messages from various district leaders, including Mark Pearmain, the superintendent, and representatives from local educational associations. These included Theresa Pidcock, vice-president of CUPE 728, Angela Marcakis, first vice-president of the Surrey Teachers’ Association, and Graham Magnusson, president of the Surrey Principals’ and Vice Principals’ Association.

Adding a personal touch to the event, Zohra Khawaja, a Grade 12 student from Grandview Heights Secondary and member of the district’s Student Voice group, also participated in the celebrations.

The evening was complemented by live music from the École Kwantlen Park Secondary Jazz Combo, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Recognizing Contributions

In appreciation of their service, all retirees received a bentwood box designed by Shain Niniwum Selápem Jackson, an artist from the shishálh First Nation, through Spirit Works. Alternatively, retirees were offered gift cards to local restaurants as a token of gratitude for their years of dedication to education.

The retirement dinner not only celebrated the achievements of the retirees but also served as a reminder of the lasting impact that dedicated educators have on generations of students. As they embark on this new chapter of their lives, the contributions of these individuals will continue to resonate within the Surrey school district and beyond.