Take care, Tigers

HURON — Four Tigers pounced into retirement at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Huron Schools said goodbye to Karen Berry, Dianna Frausto, Deborah Phinney and Carolyn Ochs as they ended their careers at the district. Their commitment and care have shaped generations and made a lasting impact on the community, according to Woodlands Elementary principal Brian Kucbel. Together, the four retirees have dedicated a century of service to the district. Retirees • Deborah Phinney — first-grade teacher — 26 years of service Phinney worked with first-grade students for more than two decades through what is described as some of their most formative years in academics, according to Kucbel. "Her classroom was a space where confidence was built, voices were heard, and every child felt seen," Kucbel said. "With unmatched compassion and an unwavering belief in her students, Deb helped shape not only better learners but also better people." Phinney's legacy will live on in the students who stepped foot into her class with uncertainty and left with curiosity, capability and confidence. Kucbel thanked Phinney for making the school stronger and students braver. • Karen Berry — preschool teacher — 34 years of service Berry was not just a preschool teacher: Kucbel also credits her for shaping the foundation of Huron's early education while teaching the little Tigers. "Through vision, patience and high expectations, she built a program that's now recognized for its excellence across the region," Kucbel said. "Her leadership and love for learning set the tone for generations of students, giving them their very first classroom experience filled with kindness, structure and creativity." Kucbel said the district is grateful for Berry's work, which laid the groundwork for a lifetime of learning. • Dianna "Dee" Frausto — second-grade teacher — 29 years of service Frausto was just shy of three decades working in education with a presence described as calm, steady and joyful by Kucbel. "In her second-grade classroom, students learned more than reading and math — they learned confidence, compassion and curiosity," Kucbel said. "Her consistency and warmth made her a favorite among students and families alike." As she says goodbye to the district, Frausto is leaving behind a legacy of students who felt safe, seen and supported, according to Kucbel. He said she is also leaves behind her colleagues who felt lucky to be by her side. • Carolyn Ochs — assistant cook — 11 years of service "Behind the scenes but never unnoticed," is how Kucbel described Ochs. She served the district's students "with heart and humility" for just over a decade. "From early mornings to busy lunch rushes, Carolyn made sure our students were cared for and nourished every day," Kucbel said. "Her role may have taken place behind the kitchen doors, but her impact was felt throughout the building." Kucbel thanked Ochs for showing up every day with quiet strength and genuine care. He said she will be missed.