Centuries of support

BELLEVUE — Bellevue Schools recently approved the retirements of 10 employees this year. These people collectively contributed more than 200 years of service to the district, according to superintendent Troy Roth. "Their unwavering commitment to Bellevue Schools and our students shaped not only academic achievements but also the character and futures of countless students," Roth said. "We are grateful for their passion, their tireless efforts and the lasting impact they have made on our school community." Bellevue Elementary School • Anne Burkhart, special education aide, served the district for 18 years and the education field for 26 years. Burkart's favorite memory from her career is the meaningful connections she has made with students, according to a social media post from the district. She had a nonverbal student say "apple pie" on Pi Day, and a former kindergarten student became a registered nurse and cared for her father. In retirement, she plans to travel and spend time with grandchildren, family and friends. • Wanda Conway, intervention specialist, served the district and education field for 32 years. Bellevue Middle School • Jane Didion, food service, served the district for 24 years. Bellevue High School • Lori McCoppin, intervention specialist, served the district for 31 years and the education field for 35 years McCoppin's favorite memory is creating a family out of the students, and co-workers she has had through the years, according to a social media post from the district. Now that she is retired, McCoppin plans to catch up on sleep, golf and travel with friends. • Jill Mohr, school counselor, served the district and education field for 35 years. A meaningful memory from Mohr's time teaching was during COVID, according to a social media post from the district. She helped students through challenges caused by the pandemic and ensured they stayed motivated and on track for graduation. As she steps into retirement, Mohr looks forward to traveling, late mornings, daily exercise and reading. • David Strayer, instrumental music, served the district for 34 years and the education field for 35 years. Strayer has contributed to more than 2,000 students' musical journeys, grown the Good Vibrations Handbell group to 100-plus students and overall had an immeasurable impact on the district's music program, according to a social media post from the district. He has earned several honors throughout his years from performing at Cleveland Browns games to earning honors at contests and energizing crowds at district sporting events. The district said his passion and dedication brought music to life for generations. He also has bell choir memories just as memorable as the instrumental band. He and his students have gone from senior centers and stadiums to Toledo Mud Hens games and Ohio School Board Association Conferences. Now that he is retired, he plans to spend his time with family, traveling, working in the yard and gardening. He hopes to grow a pumpkin weighing in at least 1,000 pounds and continue his love of bowling. • Leslie Woodard, art, served the district for 27 years and the education field for 35.5 years. One of Woodard's favorite memories from her career comes from her time at York School, according to a social media post made by the district. When she was teaching art, a classroom iguana climbed up a drying rack in the middle of a lesson. Woodard looks forward to traveling, volunteering, relaxing and creating art in her retired years. • Bill Reis, head custodian, served the district for 29 years. • Sanford Selvey, custodian, served the district for 28 years. Districtwide • Kelly Sanders, head mechanic, served the district for 13 years.