At the Derby USD 260 Board of Education (BOE) meeting Monday night, an employee and a volunteer were acknowledged for making a difference in the lives of students at Derby schools.
Charleen Radich and Connie Smith were given the ‘I Make a Difference’ awards for routinely going above and beyond their normal duties.

Radich, a custodian at Wineteer Elementary school, received her award Monday night, but Smith, a volunteer at Park Hill Elementary School, was out of town. Smith will receive her award from Park Hill Principal Maretta Unruh upon her return.

Great expectations

Radich “goes well beyond the expectations of her job on a daily basis,” USD 260 Assistant Superintendent/Human Resources Dr. Wayne Burke said. “She sees what needs to be done and does it, taking great pride in her work.”

Radich also teaches new hires her high expectations, Burke said.

Burke thanked Radich for being a part of the Derby school district.

‘Little angels’

Smith has volunteered at Park Hill for the past two years.

According to Burke, Smith acknowledges the value of every student, making them feel special by greeting them by name. 

“Her work with her ‘little angels’ is selfless,” Burke said. “She loves to appreciate their abilities and isn’t intimidated by their disabilities.

“The SMD room, as well as the rest of Park Hill, truly appreciate her kindness.”

Burke thanked Smith for the time and energy she invests into the Derby school district.

District thankful
 
“The efforts of Charleen and Connie are greatly appreciated,” Burke said.