Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools took time to appreciate retiring employees on Wednesday morning at the 2025 Retirement Breakfast.
This year, the district is sending off 219 retiring employees with a staggering 5,057 years of experience between them. They’ve served as teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, school administrators, and every other position that keeps schools running and students learning. Those numbers only scratch the surface of what these workers have done to make a positive impact on the district’s students.
“In education, we can’t quantify the work we do,” said Chief Human Resources Officer Dr. Chris Weikart. “It’s not a test score. It’s the aha moment on a kid’s face when they finally got it. It’s when they made a better choice and instead of using their hands, they used their words. It’s when you saw them being kind to another student… those are the things that I hope you’ll remember in your next chapter.”
The retirees enjoyed a catered breakfast buffet and coffee bar when they arrived at the Education Building on Wednesday morning. They were presented with certificates in a graduation-style ceremony and had the chance to win dozens of door prizes donated by local businesses. Coupled with one more day of camaraderie with their colleagues before they take their leave, it was a fun and uplifting way to close the book on their careers with WS/FCS.
“I think it’s great,” said Driver’s Education Coordinator Charles Jarman, who retired after 39.7 years of service. “We do important work here, and it’s good to recognize that… I think everybody had a good time.”
These workers have all earned as much time as they want to relax and unwind, but district leaders hope to see them again in the future as volunteers. Whatever they have planned next, they’re sure to keep the mission of enriching children close to their hearts.
“We wish you all the best in your retirement,” said Board of Education Chair Deanna Kaplan. “We know that you will continue to work to make a difference in our community, and we’re looking forward to hearing about all your future successes.”