June BOE Meeting Full of Celebrations!

6/7/2024

At Wednesday's BOE meeting, the academic and athletic teams were recognized for their state victories. Congratulations were given to the Mock Trial team making it to Nationals; the Boys and Girls Crew teams winning States; the Girls Track team winning States along with the Girls Tennis team.

WAY TO GO WILDCATS!

After the academic and athletic recognitions, LOLPS retirees were recognized and thanked for their years of service to our schools. For LOLHS, we are are bidding farewell to three beloved wildcats: Glynis Houde, Leslie O'Connor and Billy Rayder.

Glynis Houde, School Counseling Office Admin Assistant

It is an honor to stand before you today as we celebrate the remarkable 18-year career of our beloved high school counseling office manager, Glynis Houde.
For nearly two decades, Glynis has been the cornerstone of our counseling office. A high school counseling office is busier than the runway at JFK. It takes a special person to manage three counselors, transcripts, grades, scholarships, awards ceremonies, college applications, graduation planning, and family registrations, while also being the calm in the storm and the friendly face to students in times of stress. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff have made a lasting impact on countless lives. Her warmth and kindness have created a welcoming environment where students feel supported and understood.
Glynis’ exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail have ensured that every aspect of the counseling office runs with efficiency and accuracy. When I ask Glynis to handle a project, her usual response is, “I already did it.”
Beyond her professional contributions, Glynis has been a cherished colleague and friend. Her positive attitude and willingness to go the extra mile have enriched our school community. Glynis is highly respected and loved by her colleagues, students, and families.
As Glynis embarks on this new chapter of her life, we wish her joy, relaxation, and endless adventures. Her legacy of dedication and compassion will continue to inspire us. You will be deeply missed, but your impact will remain in our hearts forever.

Leslie O'Connor, Special Education Teacher

We have only had the privilege to work alongside Leslie O’Connor for the past 25 years, but next week will mark the end of her 42 years in education. Leslie has been a pillar of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her students. As a special education teacher, she has championed the rights and opportunities of every child who walked through her classroom door, ensuring they received the rich, high-quality experience they deserved.
Her passion for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment has transformed countless lives. Her tireless efforts and legendary patience have broken down barriers, opened doors, and created opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach for her students.
Coupled with her extensive knowledge of special education is Leslie’s genuine caring demeanor that instills a true feeling of trust and confidence with her students and their parents.
Well before Green-Teams and environmental clubs, Leslie O’Connor has been a strong advocate in our school for the health of our environment. With her at the lead our staff has truly changed its habits to be less of a burden on our planet. It is because of Leslie that I do not run the water while brushing my teeth.
She has inspired all of us with her dedication to her craft and has left an indelible mark on our school community.
Thank you for your service, your passion, and your unwavering belief in the potential of every student.
Enjoy the next leg of your journey

Writing these words may be the most difficult assignment in my career. How do I do justice to 49 years in just a few paragraphs? In addition to serving as the anchor of our Physical Education department, Billy has coached numerous sports and taught just about every citizen in our town to drive a car. But it’s not about his resume.
For nearly five decades, Billy has been an irreplaceable part of our school community. The motto of our P.E. department is "Go Big, because going home is not an option," and I have never witnessed a day that Billy did not embody this spirit. He brings high energy and enthusiasm to every student, every day.
Whether coaching on the field, leading a class, or cheering from the sidelines, Billy’s presence has always been a source of motivation and encouragement.
His impact goes beyond the physical. Billy has been a mentor, a role model, and a friend. His positive attitude, infectious enthusiasm, and genuine care for each student has created an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to do their best.
I truly believe that one of the factors that have contributed to the friendly and supportive community in which we all live or work is the lasting impact that Billy’s life and work has had on generations of our citizens.
Billy, your legacy of going big, every single day, will continue to encourage us all.
Congratulations on your extraordinary career and your well-deserved retirement!