This year, Southwestern proudly recognizes a remarkable group of retirees whose combined service to our district totals an extraordinary 251.75 years. As teachers, aides, support staff, supervisors, mentors, advisors, and champions for students, each has made a lasting impact on our school community. Their dedication, compassion, leadership, and commitment to excellence have helped shape the lives of countless students and enriched the experiences of colleagues and families alike. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their years of service and wish them happiness, good health, and many exciting adventures in retirement. Our elementary school retirees are listed below.

Pam Piazza – 36.5 years

After beginning her career at Southwestern as a substitute lunch monitor in 1986, filling in for Margaret Swanson, Pam Piazza joined the district full-time as a Teacher Aide in October 1989. Over the years, she generously supported students in many roles, including summer school teacher aide, pool supervisor, and substitute sports worker.

Known for her spunky personality, outgoing nature, and kindness, Pam has touched the lives of countless students and colleagues throughout her career. Her dedication, positive spirit, and willingness to help wherever needed have left a lasting impact on the Southwestern community. While we are saddened that health concerns have led to her retirement, we are deeply grateful for nearly four decades of service and wish her all the best in the years ahead.

Vita Damon – 30 years

After beginning her service to Southwestern as a substitute Teacher Aide in 1993, Vita Damon joined the district as a Teacher Aide in 1996. Throughout her career, she has provided dedicated support to students and staff, including many years of service in the summer school program. Vita has also assisted countless staff members through her service in the CSEA union.

Known for her caring nature, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor, Vita has brightened the days of students and colleagues alike. Her dedication to Southwestern was evident when, even after retiring in July 2025, she returned for another year to continue helping wherever she was needed. Her kindness, commitment, and positive spirit have made a lasting impact on our school community, and we are grateful for the many years she devoted to supporting Southwestern students.

Sue Waite – 24 years

Since joining Southwestern in 2002 as an Elementary Teacher, Sue Waite has dedicated her career to helping students learn, grow, and succeed. As a fifth-grade teacher, she has guided countless students through an important transition year, helping to prepare them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, she has taught summer school for many years, served as a mentor to fellow educators, and provided leadership as the Grade-Level Chairperson for 5th Grade.

Known for being both smart and sweet, Sue has earned the respect and admiration of students, families, and colleagues alike. Her kindness, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to education have made a lasting impact on the Southwestern community. We are grateful for her years of service and wish her all the best in her retirement.

Janice Johnson – 16 years

After beginning her Southwestern career as a substitute teacher in 2006, Janice Johnson was appointed as an Elementary Music Teacher in 2008. Since then, she has shared her love of music with countless students, helping them develop their talents, confidence, and appreciation for the arts.

In addition to Janice’s classroom contributions, she has helped create some of Southwestern Elementary’s most cherished traditions. Each year, she organizes the festive holiday sing-along featuring the Reindeer Rockettes and coordinates the staff musical send-off that greets students as they leave on the last day of school. Through her creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication, she has brought joy, laughter, and music to generations of students and staff alike. Her positive impact will continue to be felt long after the final note is played, and we wish her all the best in her retirement.