By Jef Rietsma
The Vicksburg school district is saying goodbye to a small number of employees to retirement, losing more than a century of experience.
Five staff members, including 32-year district employee Chris Laaksonen, will teach their final day this month.
Superintendent Keevin O’Neill said the quintet of soon-to-be retirees gave their all to Vicksburg Community Schools and its students.
“Vicksburg Community Schools has been blessed to have such a strong and dedicated group of employees who will soon be enjoying well-deserved retirement,” O’Neill said. “Their shoes will be difficult to fill, but the district wishes nothing but the best to each of them. Thank you for your devotion to VCS.”
The retirees are:
Laaksonen, who most recently taught seventh-grade English at Vicksburg Middle School. She is completing more than three decades of service to the district.
“I’m grateful to this community for providing a livelihood and allowing me to teach their children. The time has flown by and I’m stunned to be at the retirement phase of my career. It has been a beautiful way to spend my time – in the company of young people with all their hopefulness and enthusiasm.”
Susan Pepps, a 15-year Indian Lake Elementary teacher. The first-grade teacher said she loves all the teachers, students, principals (past and current) and staff. “I appreciate everyone’s sacrifice to make our district and Indian Lake the best that they are. I am a very proud teacher and grateful to be here in Vicksburg.”
Donna Cubbage, an eighth-grade science teacher at Vicksburg Middle School, started her career as a reading specialist. A 23-year VCS veteran, Cubbage has taught science at all three middle school grade levels and chemistry, physical science, biology and environmental science at VHS. “I loved the ‘ah-ha’ science moments, discussing sports and life outside of school, and I truly enjoyed being a positive influence to my students. One special seventh grader years ago has even become my son-in-law. I thank you, VCS, for giving me all the years you have for me to be a part of the thousands of students who have walked through my classroom doors.”
Brian Lambdin, who most-recently taught world history and AP world history. A 25-year VCS employee, Lambdin previously taught for seven years at LC Mohre High School in South Haven. Lambdin is an avid fisherman. He said he is also looking forward to singing and playing the guitar at local establishments during retirement.
Laura Wiercioch, who has taught math at Vicksburg Pathways since 2016. “Pathways has been the ideal spot for me because of the one-on-one connection that we have with students. It will be hard for me to leave my position.”
