As the school year comes to a close, we would like to express our gratitude and congratulations to nine incredible members of our team who are beginning a well-earned retirement. Each has dedicated years of service and leadership to our schools that will last far beyond the classroom.
Todd Butler, Superintendent, has 31 years of service in the district. Todd began his career as a PE, health, and driver's ed. teacher. He also coached football, basketball, and baseball for several years. Todd was hired as the elementary school principal and later the high school principal. He has been our superintendent for the last ten years. Todd has consistently demonstrated unwavering dedication to our school district, guiding us through good times and moments of challenge. His commitment to the success and well-being of students and staff has always been strong.
Janet Blade has taught at Cumberland for 46 years. She taught both English and Spanish at the high school level. She has also been a committed sponsor of the high school student council for many years. This year, Mrs. Blade was voted Teacher of the Year by the student body. She has had an impact on many lives, as students speak highly of Mrs. Blade well after they have graduated. Janet has been a vital part of our district, educating generations of students and being someone staff could depend on
Debbie Clark, Title 1 Coordinator, has worked for the district for 23 years. She began her career as a middle school special education teacher. Later, she took the position of Title 1 Coordinator. Debbie has overseen the intervention process for dozens of students, ensuring they received the support they needed to succeed. She has collaborated with teachers to help students, always approaching challenges with positivity, focusing on a solution.
Michelle Neal has been a special education teacher in our district for 35 years. She began her career at the middle school. She worked with students there to support their needs as well as co-teach with other middle school teachers. Michelle later moved over to the high school as a special education teacher. She has always worked closely with students and other teachers to provide support to help her students be successful in their education.
Sandy Hille has been a bus driver for the district for 27 years. She plans to continue to help the district by being a substitute bus driver. Sandy has been a dependable driver, ensuring students in the district arrive safely at their school. Sandy looks forward to spending time with her grandchildren.
Ellen Brown has been a special education teacher for 18 years at Cumberland. Ellen has worked with students both at the elementary school and the middle school. She has spent those years identifying what students need to be successful in school. Ellen has a great rapport with her students. She has also worked hand in hand with other teachers, co-teaching classes. Mrs. Brown has been coaching the middle school Scholastic Bowl team for years, and her teams always do great thanks to her support and leadership.
Ann Miller has been a Title 1 paraprofessional for 17 years. Ann has worked with many students as an interventionist, helping them improve their reading and math skills. Students have enjoyed going to Mrs. Miller’s room because she is always positive, kind, and has a smile on her face. They know Mrs. Miller’s support is helping them be successful students.
Dan Kimble and Steve Ozier have been School Resource Officers at the district for 7 years. Their presence has helped our students and staff feel safe and secure during the school day or at events. Each has a wonderful rapport with the students. They chat and share high-fives with the students, which has built a great connection. They have impacted the atmosphere of the district.
Each person’s dedication has touched many lives. Thank you for your commitment to the district and our community. Please join us in celebrating their incredible careers and wishing them all the best in this new chapter!