Behind the Scenes, Making Schools Work: Operations Staff Gather for Learning and Recognition

As students celebrated their first day of summer break, another dedicated group of employees came together to prepare for summer assignments, and work that will continue year-round across the Puyallup School District. 

Last week, Operations staff gathered for an annual in-service day focused on professional learning, safety training, team building, and recognition of the people who help keep our schools running every day. While much of their work happens behind the scenes, these employees play an essential role in supporting student success by maintaining safe, clean, accessible, and welcoming learning environments, preparing nutritious meals, and ensuring district facilities operate efficiently.

The past year brought budget and staffing changes, Throughout the year, Operations staff demonstrated resilience, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to service. Their efforts helped ensure that students arrived at schools that were ready to support learning each day.

A key component of the in-service day was safety and emergency preparedness training. Health Services staff provided Narcan training to Operations employees, equipping them with knowledge about recognizing and responding to an opioid overdose emergency. 

While schools are places of learning, they are also community spaces that host a wide range of activities, events, and visitors throughout the year. Operations staff are often among the first adults on site before and after school hours, during athletic events, summer programs, community gatherings, and facility maintenance activities. Providing Narcan training expands the number of district employees who are prepared to respond in a medical emergency, helping strengthen the district’s overall commitment to student, staff, and community safety.

The day also provided an opportunity to recognize an individual whose impact on the district spans decades. 

Operations staff gathered to celebrate the service of Dr. Vincent Pecchia as he prepares to begin a new chapter following a distinguished career with the Puyallup School District. Vince’s connection to the district reflects a remarkable family legacy. Together, Dr. Pecchia and his father have served the district continuously since the early 1970s, representing more than five decades of dedication to Puyallup students and schools. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Pecchia has served in a variety of leadership roles supporting students, academic programs, and district operations. Colleagues describe him as a steady, thoughtful leader who consistently focused on finding solutions, supporting others, and keeping students at the center of decision-making. During his time with Operations, he helped guide the department through periods of change and important accomplishments, providing leadership that benefited schools across the district. 

His contributions have touched generations of students, staff, and families, and his influence will continue to be felt long after his departure.

As one school year ends and preparations begin for another, the operations in-service day served as a reminder of the many people who work behind the scenes to support learning. Their efforts may not always be visible, but they are essential to creating the safe, functional, and welcoming environments that help students thrive. 

The Puyallup School District extends its appreciation to all Operations employees for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving students every day.