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SEP. 3, 2026— Members of the Pal-Mac team filed into the High School Performing Arts Center (PAC) Wednesday morning, and officially kicked off the 2026-2027 school year as part of our annual Opening Day Ceremony.

With just days until students are welcomed back, faculty and staff celebrated the start of the new year with hugs, awards, and a rocking performance from the Rockin' Red Raider student band.

The band got the day started with a medley of songs that began with the hit song by Smash Mouth, "All Star," a fitting tribute to our amazing team.

Superintendent Dr. Bob Ike followed the performance with his annual address, which emphasized the importance of thinking in new ways instead of doing the same old same old. 

Then it was time for the annual awards ceremony. Board of Education members Laura Arrington, David Landon, Amy Boesel, Sherry Lambert, Gary LaBerge ('61), Chad Lindstrom (96'), and Sarah Newman presented the awards, which included Staff Member and Teacher of the Year Awards.

The District also recognized staff members for their years of service. 

Dr. Ike then closed out the ceremony by announcing he will retire from his position at the the conclusion of the 2027 calendar year. He was assisted by his daughter, Charlie.

Below is a complete list of awards and other recognitions. A full photo gallery can also be found by clicking here.

Special thanks to the District Office team including Amber Jenkins ('98), Kris Murphy, Tracey Nichols, Paige Salmon, and Arianna LeBron for their efforts in coordinating the event. Additional thanks to the Pal-Mac Facilities team, Food Services team, Mr. Chip Dolce, Addy Israel, Charlie Ike, and Mr. Doug Blackall for their work on the ceremony. 

 

Staff Member of the Year

Front Row (from left) Erica Murray, Caryn Parsons, Christina Serafin, Shylo Winter, Hannah Dentel-Colf, Amy Jo Ossont

Second Row (From left): Laura Arrington, Sarah Newman, David Landon, Chad Lindstrom, Sherry Lambert, Amy Boesel, Kate LaRocca, Kim Wilczewski, Melanie Hunt

Primary School: Erica Murray

Intermediate School: Shylo Winter

Middle School: Amy Jo Ossont

High School: Kate LaRocca

Transportation: Amy Wallman

 Special Recognition Award: Christina Serafin

 

Teacher of the Year

Primary School: Melanie Hunt

Intermediate School: Kimberly Wilczewski

Middle School: Hannah Dentel-Colf

High School: Caryn Parsons

 

Years of Service

15 Years: Mary Brooks, Benjamin Dlugosh, Cynthia Hill, Brittany Sculli, Andrew Wahl

20 Years: Darcy Bernitt, Laura Boss, Michelle Coffey, Rebecca Desol, Chip Dolce, Joann Harwood, Melanie Hunt, Daniel Lustica, Michael Yates

25 Years: David Bradshaw, Jeffery Cheramie, Pamela Delcoure-Wertz, Sandra Hermenet, Erin Nilsen, Karen Talbot

30 Years: Enzo Falso, Jason Stevens