The Bethel Park School District gathered to celebrate decades of dedicated service on Monday, June 8, 2026, as staff, administrators, and guests filled the High School’s Large Group Instruction (LGI) room for the annual retiring employee luncheon. The event honored the Class of 2026 Retirees — a remarkable group of educators, support staff, and administrators whose combined years of service represent an extraordinary commitment to the students and families of Bethel Park.
The luncheon brought together retirees from across the district, many of whom attended to mark the milestone alongside colleagues and friends. From classroom teachers to bus drivers, school nurses to paraprofessionals, the honorees represented every corner of the district’s daily operations.
Among those in attendance were James Beckwith (School Bus Driver), Cheryl Bele (Paraprofessional, Special Education), Sandy Blackmore (Paraprofessional, Special Education), Brian Blanc (Teacher, 6th Grade), Pamela Bright (Paraprofessional, Special Education), Peggy Ann Clancy (Teacher, 1st Grade), Dawn Douds (Teacher, 1st Grade), Todd Kuczawa (Teacher, Music), Brian Lenosky (Principal, William Penn Elementary), Susan Macurak (Paraprofessional, Special Education), Marilyn McMurray (Paraprofessional, Special Education), Kristen Rylander (Teacher, 5th Grade), Kimberly Serafini (Teacher, 3rd Grade), Scott Staranko (Teacher, Special Education), Melissa Sterbal (Teacher, 3rd Grade), Maureen Swogger (Teacher, Speech & Language Support), and Dr. James Walsh (Superintendent of Schools).
Other retirees not in attendance were also recognized. Some of the longtime classroom teachers retiring include Christopher Costello (5th Grade), Lee Cristofano (Science), Tracy Ford (School Nurse), Donna Hope (Health Service Nurse), Christina Kalvi (2nd Grade), Sheryl Kremer (Director of Cyber Programs), Jeffrey Lewis (Math), Richelle Mucci (Math), Beth Ann Petalino (2nd Grade), Mary Ann Pfeuffer (Math) Tricia Quinque (Music), Lisa Serafin (Health & Physical Education), Mark Vulcano (Teacher, Social Studies), Robert Wargo (5th Grade), and Rhonda Williams (Health Service Nurse).
The district also recognized a large contingent of dedicated special education paraprofessionals, including Pamela Backstrom, Jennifer Callahan, Karen Glotzbach, Michele Modrak, Jackie Smith, Johnnie Zaracki, and Suzanne Zigmond, among others whose daily work directly supported students with diverse learning needs.
Custodial and facilities staff were also honored, with Diana Bozzelli (Bus Driver), Laurie Smith (Bus Driver), Dee Glowacki (Custodian), Raymond Blashich (Custodian), and Michael Kirkpatrick (Head Custodian) all recognized for their essential contributions.
Additional honorees included Susan Hoffman (Instructional Aide), Darla Morrow (Building Secretary), Leslie DeFranc (Lab Technician), and Joyce Corsinelli (Instructional Aide).
Superintendent Walsh’s retirement marks a significant transition for the district. His leadership has guided Bethel Park through years of growth and change, and colleagues paused to offer their appreciation for his service to the community.
Principal Lenosky was also celebrated, with staff members reflecting on his dedication to the school’s culture and his support for both students and staff over his tenure.
The event served as both a send-off and a celebration — a chance for the Bethel Park community to say thank you to the men and women who shaped countless young lives. Together, the Class of 2026 retirees leave behind a legacy of service, care, and excellence that will be felt in the hallways of Bethel Park schools for generations to come.
The Bethel Park School District wishes each retiree a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement.
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