Surrey Schools celebrated 243 retirees with a heartfelt dinner, music, gifts, and gratitude for decades of dedication to education.

A Night of Gratitude: Surrey Schools Celebrate Their Retirees

A Warm Welcome to a Well-Deserved Celebration

The atmosphere rang with appreciation on Nov. 20 when the Surrey school district hosted a heartfelt retirement dinner. Right from the start, the evening felt special. After all, 243 dedicated employees wrapped up their final school year and stepped into retirement. The group included principals, teachers, clerks, education assistants, custodians, facilities staff, and others who shaped school life in countless ways.

Interestingly, one retiree began their journey way back in 1978 and stayed with Surrey Schools for 47 years—a truly remarkable milestone.

Thank You, From the Heart

Throughout the evening, emotions ran high. To begin with, Surrey school board chair and event host Gary Tymoschuk stepped up and shared a touching message of thanks. Moreover, he made it clear that years of hard work never go unnoticed. “The retirement dinner is our way of saying thank you – thank you for your dedication, care and commitment to student learning,” he expressed.

Additionally, Tymoschuk highlighted how much retirees have shaped local school communities. Later, he added, “The board wishes to express our gratitude for the positive influence that each of you have left on so many students and staff throughout the years.”

Leadership and Community Voices Come Together

Held at the Resource Education Centre, the event brought people together from many corners of the district. First, there was a territorial acknowledgement from deputy superintendent Andrew Holland. Then, heartfelt messages followed from Tymoschuk, superintendent Mark Pearmain, CUPE 728 vice-president Theresa Pidcock, Surrey Teachers’ Association 1st vice-president Angela Marcakis, and Surrey Principals’ and Vice Principals’ Association president Graham Magnusson.

Also joining the speakers was Zohra Khawaja, a Grade 12 student from Grandview Heights Secondary and a member of the Student Voice group reminding everyone why education matters most: students.

Music, Memories, and Many Smiles

To add to the evening’s charm, the École Kwantlen Park Secondary Jazz Combo performed live music. Because of that uplifting energy, guests mingled, relaxed, and reminisced about years of dedication.

Furthermore, every retiree received a meaningful gift: either a bentwood box created by shishálh First Nation artist Shain Niniwum Selápem Jackson of Spirit Works or a local restaurant gift card. Not only did this gesture symbolize gratitude, but it also celebrated the cultural connections within the community.

A Legacy That Lasts

As the night came to a close, one thing stood out: Surrey Schools didn’t just say goodbye they said thank you. And even though these retirees are stepping away from their desks, classrooms, and offices, their impact keeps moving forward. Consequently, their influence will live on through the students they inspired, the staff they supported, and the communities they helped shape.

In the end, the celebration was more than a dinner it was a powerful reminder that education isn’t just about lessons. Instead, it’s about people, passion, purpose, and the lasting difference one person can make year after year.

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