2025 Retirees Recognized for Years of Service

Puyallup School District celebrates the service of 53 notable staff members who are retiring at the end of the 2024-25 school year.

In total, they have contributed over 1,200 years of service to the students, staff, families, and community members of our district. More than half of these individuals have served Puyallup students for 20 years or more. 

Name	Job Title	Years
Kimberly Amsden	Teacher	25.31
Robert Bailey Jr.	Custodian	13.3
Jill Barrett	Teacher	24.85
Jacquelyn Bowen	Teacher	23.74
Jill Burch	Teacher	26.36
Robin Cashman	Interpreter Tutor	23.82
Mary Cronk	Teacher	23.85
Jennifer Dever	Teacher	28.82
Kimberly Devries	Paraeducator	9.56
Lucie Ernst	Paraeducator	18
Todd Fletcher	Teacher	30.85
Theresa Garrison	Principal	24
Lynn Gienger	Paraeducator	22.61
Gwendolyn Gilbertson	Teacher	10.22
Todd Giltner	Teacher	39.84
Karen Gonderman	Teacher	27.69
Frances Guyton	Retirement Analyst	19.78
Colleen Hallenbeck	Paraeducator	22.19
Kelli Hanis	Paraeducator	12.14
Lisa Henson	Cook Manager	24.49
Mona Horsley	Office Professional	26.56
Julie Jones	Teacher	37.71
Edwin Kraft Jr.	Teacher	16.83
Kurt Kreuger	Teacher	37.83
Lori Logan	Paraeducator	7.65
Carri Lowery	Office Manager	9.3
Teri Marth	Teacher	31.41
Donna Mertlich	Paraeducator	26.75
Eric Molver	Principal	19
Kelly Newbrey	Teacher	33.84
Kelli Olson	Speech Pathologist	22.86
Leslie Osborn	Assistant Director	23.61
Jerry Otto	Custodian	19.49
Anne Marie Petersen	Teacher	36.55
Russ Picha	Teacher	39.84
Mary Picha	Librarian	38.84
Kim Pisha	Teacher	30.1
Sally Post	Teacher	26.84
Robin Rhodes	Comm Info Analyst	27.22
Carol Rolf	Paraeducator	9.29
Kimberlie Root	Teacher on Special Assignment	33.84
Carol Sardoncillo	Paraeducator	19.68
Margaret Schuler	Teacher	22.86
Samuel Sharpe	Assistant Principal	12.84
Denise Spears	Paraeducator	27.86
Stanley Stewart	Utility Crew	3.53
Cathy Summers	Bus Driver	10.43
Christina Tillman	Technology Expeditor	44.91
Cynthia Weston	Teacher	25.91
Sheila Whittingslow	Teacher	28.55
Marc Wiese	Teacher	30.45
Michelle Woodke	Teacher	38.84

Retirees were recognized at the June 16 School Board meeting, where they received a commemorative retiree pin and extended celebratory handshakes with the school board. 

Read about the difference many of these employees have made in the lives of students and co-workers.

Jill Burch

 

Music Teacher at Dessie F. Evans Elementary – 26.36 years

It is with great admiration and heartfelt appreciation that I recognize the retirement of Jill Burch, a legendary music educator whose impact on our district is both profound and enduring. Jill has served our students with extraordinary passion, grace, and humility. She has taught children to sing with confidence from the earliest ages, nurturing not only musical talent but also self-esteem and joy.

Though she has never sought attention or accolades, her influence is far-reaching—last year, she was rightfully inducted into the Washington State Music Teacher Hall of Fame.

Beyond her teaching, Jill has mentored countless new educators, many of whom specifically request her guidance during their student teaching. Her strength, wisdom, and quiet leadership have made her a pillar of support in our schools.

As she steps into retirement, Jill leaves behind a legacy of music, mentorship, and meaningful connection. We are better because of her.

– Kevin Hampton

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Robin Cashman

 

Interpreter Tutor at Rogers High School – 23.82 years

After 25 years of dedicated service with the Puyallup School District as an ASL Interpreter and Interpreter Coordinator, Robin Cashman is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and leadership. Robin’s commitment to excellence was evident through her achievement of national certification, her leadership in numerous professional development opportunities, and her consistent advocacy for high standards in educational interpreting.

Beyond her technical skills, Robin has been a mentor to many emerging interpreters, offering invaluable support as they entered the profession. Her calm demeanor, deep knowledge, and dedication to the DHH Program have positively impacted countless students, families, and colleagues. Robin’s influence will be felt for years to come, and her contributions to the interpreting community within Puyallup will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations as she embarks on this next chapter.

- Herself

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Jennifer Dever

 

Teacher at Pope Elementary – 28.82 years

Jennifer Dever has been teaching in the Puyallup School District for 29 years, including 28 years teaching kindergarten at Pope Elementary.

While at Pope, Jennifer has had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of incredible kindergarteners. These students will always hold a special place in Jennifer’s heart, and she will look back fondly on the memories she has made.

A particularly special experience for Jennifer was having her kids, Maddi and Cody, attend Pope during her time at the school. Being able to share the school she loves so much with her kids as well as her husband, Tom, who volunteered as a WatchDOG dad for many years, was one of her greatest joys.

Jennifer would like to extend gratitude to all the students, families, and staff that she has had the honor of working with over the past 29 years!

- Jennifer's Children

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Kimberly Devries

 

Paraeducator at Kalles Junior High – 9.56 years

My love for children led me to my current job as a paraeducator in the support center at Kalles Junior High. I started teaching children at church, at the age of 13 and have loved teaching children of all ages ever since. I have taught everything from pre-school to youth group and loved every minute of it. In 2016, my youngest child was in 7th grade, I decided to apply to work in the Puyallup School District.

My first year, I subbed around the district, but when I came to Kalles, I knew this is where I should be. I took on a long-term sub job and then was hired the next school year. Kalles has been a wonderful school to be at for the last 8 years. I feel very blessed to have been a part of the Kalles family and to have made so many great friends here. Also, I have loved working with these children over the years. I will always cherish the time I had here and all that I have learned. I also just completed my 27th season coaching high school tennis at various schools. I currently coach for Rogers High School and plan on continuing to.

- Herself

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Todd Fletcher

 

Teacher at Kalles Junior High – 30.85 years

Mr. Fletcher has positively impacted the world for many generations to come. When I think of Mr. Fletcher, I think of class, professionalism, fun, and an all-in approach to his work. I also think of the style he brought daily via his button-down shirt and tie. He always personified expertise and readiness. Of course, he taught at a high level, and he made learning meaningful and fun, but as a leader I always appreciated his work beyond the classroom. These efforts helped create a culture at Kalles JH that very few other schools enjoyed.

Mr. Fletcher won awards with his yearbook work year after year. He created a dynasty for the school’s cross-country team. He helped shape Ignite the Future into an event that was the envy of schools everywhere. And he became a fixture at our 9th Grade Awards Assembly. It was at this event that his eloquent speaking and expert writing skills shined. My hat is off to Mr. Fletcher and his incredible career. The teaching profession was elevated due to his commitment and efforts!

- Guy Kovacs

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Gwendolyn Gilberston

 

Teacher at Kalles Junior High – 10.22 years

Gwen Gilbertson has dedicated 44 years to teaching, with the last 10 enriching the Puyallup School District through her passion for music education. From Oregon’s Newberg schools to Kalles Junior High, Spinning, and Dessie Evans Elementary in Puyallup, Gwen has taught well over a thousand students, many of whom went on to pursue music careers—something she’s most proud of.

A highlight of her journey was leading a high school orchestra to place 3rd in the state competition. Gwen brought joy and lasting memories to her classrooms—none greater than her unforgettable birthday songs and her proclamation that Wednesday is forever “Gwensday.”

She leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, positivity, and powerful musical impact. As she heads into retirement, she looks forward to sleeping in, traveling, and spending time with family—and her beloved granddog.

- Jamie Lee

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Todd Giltner

 

Teacher at Puyallup High School – 39.84 years

Todd Giltner has dedicated 40 years to the Puyallup School District, impacting over 8,000 students through his passion for music education. He spent the majority of his career teaching orchestra at Puyallup High School and Aylen Junior High, while also serving multiple elementary and junior high schools across the district. One of his proudest moments was taking students to perform in Australia at the 1988 World’s Fair, a reflection of his dedication to providing students with life-changing experiences.

Todd’s excellence has earned him honors such as the WMEA Hall of Fame induction and the NAfME Northwest Division Lifetime Achievement Award. As he moves into retirement, Todd leaves behind a legacy of care, excellence, and commitment. If his career had a theme song, it would be “Taking Care of Business” — a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to nurturing young minds through the power of music.

- Jamie Lee

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Karen Gonderman

 

Teacher at Meeker Elementary – 27.69 years

Karen Gonderman is a dedicated educator, thoughtful colleague, and passionate advocate for students. Her career with the Puyallup School District began in 1998 as a special education paraeducator at Ridgecrest and Meeker Elementary. Following her student teaching, she went on to serve at Waller Road, Brouillet, and Firgrove Elementaries before finding her home at Meeker Elementary in 2015. Since then, she has been a steady and compassionate presence, shaping the lives of fourth graders with care, dedication, and heart.

Beyond the classroom, Karen has been a committed leader among her peers, serving as a PEA building representative from 2012 to 2023 and as a member of the PEA Executive Board from 2018 to 2024.

Karen’s impact on students and colleagues is lasting. As she enters retirement, we hope every day feels like a peaceful Saturday morning—no more early meetings, Karen! We wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter.

- David Couch

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Colleen Hallenbeck

 

Paraeducator at Glacier View Junior High – 22.19 years

Colleen began her journey with the Puyallup School District 21 years ago. Over the years, she has served in many different capacities at both the elementary and secondary levels, including as a LAP Paraeducator, SpEd Resource Assistant, Basic Education Assistant, Junior High Building Duty Assistant, School Support Paraeducator, Bus Duty staff member, and, most recently, as a Secondary Technology Library Paraeducator at both Ballou and Glacier View Junior High Schools.

Over the seven years that we have had the privilege of working with Colleen in the Library Information and Technology Program, she has proven to be an incredibly dedicated, hard-working, and passionate team member who consistently went above and beyond to support all students and staff she worked with each day. Whether it was helping students find their next best read, checking in and out novels and textbooks, or assisting students, staff, and administrators with 1:1 device technical issues, Colleen’s positive attitude, innovative thinking, and diligence always ensured that her students and colleagues had the tools and resources they needed for the classroom and for learning.

As Colleen embarks on her next journey in retirement, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for her unwavering commitment and the profound impact she has made on each school community she has served. Congratulations!

- Nick O'Neill

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Julie Jones

 

Teacher at Shaw Road Elementary – 37.71 years

My mom has been an inspiration as an educator, wife, and parent. She has made a profound impact over the past 38 years, and her legacy will be remembered and cherished by many.

Julie began in 1987 at Pope. She taught 2nd and 3rd grade. In 1990, Julie moved to Brouillet when it first opened. She taught 2nd grade where she soon was joined by her husband, Jerry Jones, P.E. teacher. In 2008, Julie made a bold change and began teaching Title/LAP at Pope and Northwood. Julie thrived in this new position and put her master’s degree with a reading emphasis to use. She continued LAP at Pope for eight years. Finally, Julie joined the Shaw Road team, and taught LAP for her remaining nine years. Jerry was then teaching at Shaw Road; this completed the full circle. Together in the beginning, and together in the end.

When I began school at Brouillet, I cherished every moment of helping my mom in her classroom. These experiences led me to fall in love with teaching.

What is my mom most proud of? Helping students learn to read and instilling hope in their futures. She cherished seeing demeanors change, where despair transformed into confidence. Her impact and legacy will live on through her family and her students.

- Natalie Hay

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Kurt Kreuger

 

Teacher at Meeker Elementary – 37.83 years

When Kurt began his teaching career 38 years ago, his dream was to teach Social Studies to intermediate students. Like many first-year teachers, his first job wasn’t quite what he expected—it was teaching second grade at Firgrove Elementary. But this unexpected start became a defining moment in his career. Kurt quickly discovered a deep joy in teaching younger children and realized he could make a powerful impact at the elementary level. Building strong relationships with his students became the heart of his teaching. Just one year later, he joined Meeker, where he would remain for the next 37 years.

Beyond the classroom, Kurt wore many hats—serving as a track coach and organizing school assemblies. Coaching gave him another way to connect with students, often inviting those who struggled to join the team, helping them build confidence and a sense of belonging. He is also a gifted storyteller, captivating students and colleagues alike with his memorable tales that brought lessons to life and created lasting memories.

Over the years, Kurt has created lasting bonds with students, families, and colleagues. Former students returning to Meeker often seek him out first—a true testament to the positive influence he’s had. His retirement will be felt deeply by many who cherish those connections. Looking back, Kurt is amazed to have spent nearly four decades at Meeker, a journey made fulfilling by the supportive administrators and community around him.

- Cindy Jones

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Eric Molver

 

Principal at Mt. View Elementary – 19 years

As a high school senior in 1981, Eric camp counseled 6th grade students. It was then that he realized his love for teaching and leadership. After graduating from Washington State University in 1985 – Go Cougs! – Eric was hired as a teacher in Clover Park SD. Eric taught for 8 years in Clover Park but was soon hired as a vice principal at Woodbrook JHS. Eric then became principal of Greenwood and Idlewild Elementary Schools.

After 20 years in Clover Park, Eric wanted to be closer to home, and on his kids’ schedule, and was hired here in Puyallup, where he has spent the last 19 years. Being principal of Woodland, Mt. View, Edgemont JHS, and Edgerton Elementary have been incredible roles. A foundation of strong relationships, positive culture, a growth mindset, and servant leadership has been his focus, putting his students, staff, and families first.

Next on the agenda is yardwork, fishing, time with family, Cougar football, and traveling to Europe with his amazing wife, Desiree.

- Himself

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Kelli Olson

 

Special Services Speech Language Pathologist – 22.86 years

Kelli Olson is a proud WSU alumna (Go Cougs!) who has dedicated 37 years to working as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

Kelli began her career in the Marysville School District, where she served for 14 years before joining the Puyallup School District in 2002.

She served as the SLP at Sunrise and Edgerton Elementary Schools before taking on the role at Special Services, as the primary SLP that supported the district’s preschool-age Child Find screenings. In this role, Kelli was often one of the first people to connect with the families of our youngest learners.

Across all her positions, Kelli consistently formed caring, positive relationships and ensured that students received the support they needed. Her impact is profound and will be deeply missed.

As she steps into retirement, Kelli looks forward to spending more time with her family—especially her grandson, born in 2024—traveling, and simply enjoying the freedom to do whatever she pleases each day.

Thank you, Kelli, for your outstanding career and lasting contributions.

- Kelly Carrick

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Anne Marie Petersen

 

Teacher at Carson Elementary – 36.55 years

It’s a rare thing when a person gets to do what they love their entire career. My journey actually began in 7th grade when I decided that I would become a physical education teacher.

Now, after 37 years teaching in Puyallup, I walk away feeling grateful and blessed. During my career, over 10,000 students have enriched my life. Hundreds of amazing staff have inspired me, and dozens of outstanding administrators have empowered me. Eager to share my passion for sports beyond the classroom, I was lucky to be able to coach dozens of teams of basketball, volleyball, track and math relay.

My only regret is that I didn’t do more parachute activities. I’ve come to learn that most adults remember the parachute as their fondest PE memory.

- Herself

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Mary Ellen Picha

 

Librarian at Meeker Elementary – 38.84 years

Since 1987, Mary Ellen Picha has been teaching students, curating libraries, and bringing joy and laughter to colleagues across the Puyallup School District. She began her career at Ridgecrest Elementary before finding her true calling as a librarian.

Mary Ellen has inspired countless students to fall in love with reading, always ready with the perfect book and a welcoming smile. Since 2004, she has been a cornerstone of Meeker Elementary — a constant, caring presence who has made a lasting impact on students, staff, and families alike.

As Mary Ellen embarks on her well-deserved retirement, we send her off with our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for the road ahead. Her next chapter may include fewer early mornings, but we’re sure it will be filled with the things she loves most — including a few peaceful strolls through the berry and pumpkin patches at Picha Farms.

Congratulations, Mary Ellen — your legacy of learning, kindness, and joy will live on in every book opened by a curious young reader. Enjoy every moment of your retirement!

- David Couch

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Russ Picha

 

Teacher at Aylen Junior High – 39.84 years

What an impressive 40-year teaching career—37 at Aylen Junior High! As a student-athlete at Aylen Junior High and Puyallup High School, Russ Picha was a dominating force. With a B.S. in Science Education from WSU, he began teaching at Ballou Junior High before joining the Aylen Falcon family.

In those four decades, Russ gave back to his community with unwavering dedication. Early in his career, he led our student leadership program, empowering students to find their voice and serve others. He helped launch countless traditions that continue to shape our school today. In his science classroom, students didn’t just study—they experienced learning, often walking with him to outdoor learning sites around the community.

Russ extended his influence beyond the classroom—coaching football and basketball at Aylen and serving as the iconic voice of Puyallup High’s football, basketball, and volleyball games. Known for his deep ties to the Aylen and Puyallup communities, he has spent decades building relationships and giving back—whether through time, mentorship, or sharing the fruits of his farm.

His legacy is woven into every corner of our school. Mr. Picha, thank you for your service, heart, and excellence. You will forever be part of the Aylen and Puyallup story. Once a Falcon, always a Falcon!

- Teresa Clifton

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Kim Pisha

 

Teacher at Wildwood Elementary – 30.10 years

Kim Pisha is a kind, caring, remarkable person whose talents and passion have made her an extraordinary teacher. She has taught in the Puyallup School District for 30 years. Her impact on students reaches even farther than Puyallup as she has mentored student teachers, taught college classes, and has involved the community in her teaching.

Math and science are her passion. This is evident by her chairing the Science Fair at the district and school level, inviting the Astrological Society, Robotics Team, and Pierce County Education Department to school. She sponsored the Puyallup River Family Stewardship Night at school. She also planned a garden with the help of the Pierce County Environmental Educator at her school, showing students the life cycle of plants. Students plant, care for, harvest, and then either eat or utilize the crop.

She is dedicated, hardworking, creative, and has a passion for helping every student succeed.

- Lindsey Carlson

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Sally Post

 

Teacher at Dessie Evans Elementary – 26.84 years

Sally Post has been a cherished and integral part of the Puyallup School District, embodying compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. Her heart for everyone around her shines through in every interaction, consistently fostering a culture of care and support.

Sally has served at Sunrise Elementary, Carson Elementary, Brouillet Elementary, and currently here at Dessie Evans Elementary, lifting up those around her at each stop. She has an exceptional ability to nurture, advocate, and create a welcoming environment where all feel valued. Her selfless dedication to student success and staff well-being has inspired everyone fortunate to work alongside her.

We deeply appreciate the countless ways she has enriched our schools, and her positive impact will continue to resonate throughout our community for years to come. Thank you, Sally, for your steadfast service and your generous heart.

- Kevin Hampton

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Peggy Schuler

 

Teacher at Ballou Junior High – 22.86 years

Peggy Schuler started her teaching career in 1999 after being a stay-at-home mom for ten years. She taught third grade at Graham Elementary for two years and then transferred to Zeiger Elementary in Puyallup where she taught third grade and sixth grade for many years. Peggy also taught at Edgerton for two years. She completed her career after teaching English for eight years at Ballou Jr. High. She was also the union representative for Ballou for five years.

Peggy moved with her family from Wisconsin to Puyallup in 1992. She attended Central Washington University and became a teacher in 1999. Her children, Matthew and Samuel, are Puyallup School District graduates, having attended Brouillet, Stahl, and Rogers.

Teaching was the most fulfilling career she could have ever imagined having. Peggy has made lifelong friendships and has been blessed to be part of so many different lives. She states that education has gone through so many changes over the last several years, but the one constant remains the students. They come daily with hopes, dreams, challenges, and experiences unique to them. Peggy believes she has learned as much from the students as they have learned from her. They have shared heartbreaks, as well as triumphs, and she is grateful for the opportunities and memories gifted over the last 25 years.

- Herself

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Christina Tillman

 

Technology Expeditor at EdTec Engagement Center – 44.91 years

Christina (Chris) Tillman started working part-time for the Puyallup School District in 1979 as a junior in high school, and was hired full time in August 1980. Over the more than 40 years working in the technology department, Chris has served in many roles and has seen dramatic advances in technology. She is known throughout the district for her positive attitude, responsiveness, vast expanse of knowledge, excellent record-keeping, and delightful sense of humor.

In her most recent role, Technology Expeditor, some of Chris’ many contributions to the district have been ensuring that the technology we all need to do our jobs is properly ordered, received, paid for, and delivered to staff and students. We will miss her immensely!

As Chris joins her husband, Jon, in retirement, she plans to spend more time with her four granddaughters (and soon-to-arrive grandson) – working on being the best babcia ever!

- Margaret Larkey

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Shelley Woodke

 

Teacher at Kalles Junior High – 38.84 years

After 39 remarkable years of dedicated service, Shelley Woodke is retiring from her position as a Math teacher at Kalles Junior High. Shelley has been a constant and invaluable presence at Kalles, shaping the lives of thousands of students with her unwavering commitment to education and her passion for mathematics.

Shelley’s deep knowledge, patience, and ability to make complex concepts understandable have left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues alike. Her classroom has been a place where learning thrived, and every student was encouraged to reach their full potential.

Shelley has been a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration to all who have had the pleasure of working with her. Her dedication to the Kalles community, her tireless work ethic, and her positive influence will be deeply missed.

We congratulate Shelley on a well-earned retirement and thank her for nearly four decades of outstanding service. Her legacy will continue to resonate in the halls of Kalles Junior High and in the many lives she has touched.

- Angie Reed