7 Rockets say goodbye

OAK HARBOR — Benton-Carroll-Salem Schools said goodbye to seven employees. At the end of the 2024-25 school year, the district sent off seven retirees, each of whom had decades of connection to their schools. District superintendent Cathy Bergman provided information and remarks on each retiree: Paulette Hanselman Paulette Hanselman started her teaching journey in 1989 after graduating from Toledo University with a bachelor of education in elementary and early child education. In the same year, she took a position at St. Boniface School where she taught first grade for two years. Hanselman then joined Benton-Carroll-Salem Schools in 1991. For the next 34 years, she served in positions as a reading teacher at Carroll Elementary, a second-grade teacher at Carroll Elementary, a second-grade teacher at RC Waters Elementary, a third-grade teacher at RC Waters Elementary and a fourth-grade teacher at Oak Harbor Middle School. "Paulette is extremely dedicated to her job and kids," Cathy said. "She cares about each and every one of her students. Her genuine care is evident in the way she makes them feel seen, valued, and truly special." In her time in the education field, Hanselman also coached boys and girls cross country and helped out with events, like the Econ Fair. Hanselman's quiet demeanor is what students needed, according to Cathy, and the district is grateful for her efforts put toward the Econ Fair. She said the event showcased Hanselman's creativity and passion for hands-on learning. "Her willingness to go above and beyond, including the countless experiments she thoughtfully prepared and conducted, has left a lasting impact on both her students and colleagues," she said. "Thank you for your endless work on the Econ Fair and the many, many experiments you performed. Paulette, as you embark on this exciting new chapter, may your new experiment with retirement be the best one yet." Amy Sutter Amy Sutter is also a 1989 graduate of Toledo University with a bachelor of education in elementary and early child education. Sutter began her career in the same place it ended as a substitute for the district from 1989 to 1991. She stepped away from the area to teach kindergarten at Oregon City Schools from 1991 to 1996 but returned to finish up her career at RC Waters Elementary where she taught kindergarten and third grade. In total, Sutter had 34 years of experience with Benton-Carroll-Salem Schools. "She's been a bright light in our school, a role model, and friend," Cathy said. Cathy described Sutter's ability to go above and beyond in the classroom. She said her students "never just read a book." Sutter took her students "on adventures." "With her love of reading, she didn't just teach stories; she brought them to life," Cathy said. "She created magic in her classroom — and the kind of magic that sticks with kids long after they leave her room." Cathy also spoke on what it was like to work with Sutter through her time at the district. She went from singing the alphabet to teaching fractions, impacting hundreds of students. "Her kindness and compassion have touched so many lives, which I'm sure all these qualities will be poured out to her grandchildren," Cathy said. "Amy, thank you for your years of dedication, for the laughter you brought, the lives you changed and the joy you shared so freely. Your presence has made this place brighter — and though you're retiring from the classroom, the impact you've made will stay with us forever." Jil Zurvalec In her 20 years at the district, Jil Zurvalec has worked in the district's playgrounds and libraries. She also served as a third-grade paraprofessional. Zurvalec has made an impact on all of those within the district, especially the children, according to Cathy. "Her passion for working with kids shines through in everything she does," Cathy said. "Whether it was comforting a nervous kindergartener on their first day of school or helping a student finally 'get' that tricky math concept, Jil has always been there with patience, encouragement, and a sparkle in her eye." There was no task Zurvalec would refuse to tackle, according to Cathy. She said Zurvalec would lend a hand with anything from mopping a spill to listening to a district member who is having a rough day. "Jil, your retirement is so well-deserved — but that doesn't mean we won't miss you terribly," Cathy said. "You leave behind a legacy of laughter, love and unwavering dedication. The halls won't be the same without you, but we know this is just the beginning of a new adventure." Cathy thanked Zurvalec for her years of service, heart and "for being a No. 1 supporter for kids." Helen Carolus Helen Carolus has also been a staff member of the district since 2005, but her time dates back to when she was a student and graduated in the Class of 1980. She started her career as an assistant cook at the middle school where she stayed until 2023 when it closed. She then finished out her time as an assistant cook at the high school for a year and a half. "She was excellent at her job and always dependable," Cathy said. "The food service department will miss hearing about her family and her adventures. Her love for travel, hiking and even jumping out of airplanes will carry her into retirement. We will miss you, Helen." Sally Favro Sally Favro was a member of the district's staff for 28 years. She supported the elementary and middle schools' kitchens as an assistant cook, and she ran interoffice mail for several years. Her talks and positive attitude every day supported people districtwide and "someone who has fed not just our bodies but also our spirits for so many years," Cathy said. Favro brought a calm and loving presence to the elementary school, the superintendent said, adding that Favro brightened the students' days with a warm smile and calm demeanor. "It's not just your culinary skills that we celebrate," she said. "It's her kindness, the way she greeted everyone with a warm smile, even on the busiest of days. It's her compassion, making sure that every person — felt seen, cared for and welcomed. May your retirement be filled with joy, relaxation, and, of course, the delicious meals you now get to enjoy eating out without having to prepare them yourself." Barb Geldin Barb Geldin is also an Oak Harbor graduate. She is a member of the 1978 graduating class. For 32 years, Geldin worked as a custodian at Camp Perry. She was also a classified sub and a member of the summer maintenance team for a year. For the past five years, she was a member of the district's food service department and worked for the high school and elementary school. "Barb always has a smile for students and had an excellent attendance record for work," Cathy said. "As you hang up your apron and embark on this new journey, know that your dedication and hard work has touched many lives. We thank you for your five years at BCS and wish you nothing but the best in retirement." George Bergman In his 40-year career at the district, George Bergman has a long list of accomplishments. George Bergman, who is married to Cathy, has been the district's junior high wrestling coach for seven years and head coach since 1992. In his time, he coached 14 state champions, seven state runner-ups ups and 65 state placers He has earned several awards for his coaching, including the 2023-24 AAU, Amateur Athletic Union, National Coach of the Year, Ohio High School Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame 2017 induction and Ohio Coach of the Year 2009. "For four decades, Coach has inspired, guided and challenged generations of wrestlers, leaving an indelible mark on our school and our lives," Cathy said. The superintendent added that George had an impact on students, including their three sons, through his career thanks to his "tireless commitment and passion." "We honor not just your incredible coaching record but the legacy you've built — a legacy of excellence, sportsmanship and unwavering commitment," Cathy said. "On behalf of every wrestler who has ever stepped onto the mat under your guidance, thank you, Coach Bergman, for being the mentor, the motivator, and our inspiration."