Retirement Recognition
On May 22 after students had left, Mr. Carter honored five remarkable employees who are retiring from the Algona Community School District. Together, they have dedicated 110 years of service, profoundly impacting countless lives throughout the years. ACSD extends our heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering commitment and contributions to our community.
Marilyn Berte
Marilyn Berte began her journey with the Algona Community School District in 1994. Over the past 30 years, she has worked with students at various job sites, including Hutzel’s, Diamonds, Pizza Hut, KRHC, HyVee, and Classic Stop. Marilyn fondly recalls that what she will miss most about her time at the school is the students and the daily interactions with staff. She finds immense satisfaction in seeing her former students thriving in the community. As she steps into retirement, Marilyn plans to stay active by working out at Call State Park. Reflecting on her career, she feels blessed to have found a job she loved coming to every day. Marilyn has witnessed many changes over the years, from the days when it was just a high school to the expansion of the school facilities. Congratulations, Mrs. Berte, on 30 years of dedicated service to the Algona Community School District!
Theresa Kuecker
Theresa Kuecker was hired 26 years ago as the High School Secretary when the High School office was the current Central Administration. Over the past five decades, Algona High School has had only two secretaries, and Theresa’s tenure is a testament to her commitment. She will miss the daily interactions with her colleagues but is excited for the next chapter of her life. Theresa looks forward to being more involved in her grandchildren’s lives, traveling, learning professional cake decorating, playing pickleball, biking, and enjoying the four seasons. She also plans to spend time at the lake with friends and tackle some long-overdue projects. Theresa has a unique bucket list item to visit all the State Fairs in the United States. On the first day of school next year, she hopes to be on vacation, perhaps in the Black Hills or attending a state fair, enjoying a cup of coffee and thinking of everyone heading back to school. Congratulations, Mrs. Kuecker, on your 26 years of service to the Algona Community School District!
Keith Frideres
Keith Frideres joined the Algona School system in 2016 and has served as a bus driver for the past eight years. He will miss the daily interactions with the students, watching them grow and develop into young adults, and sharing stories at the mix master about weekend events and activities. Keith has learned that good communication with students fosters a bond and trust. He plans to spend his retirement camping, hunting, fishing, and taking care of his honey-do list, all while enjoying time with his children. Keith knows he will miss his colleagues at the bus barn, the coaches, teachers, and parents who have influenced his career. Congratulations, Mr. Frideres, on your retirement!
Bob Gridley
Bob Gridley began his career with the Algona Community School District on August 24, 1998. For 26 years, Bob has been an integral part of the best custodial night crew in Iowa, a role he will deeply miss. He finds satisfaction in knowing his work was appreciated and valued. In retirement, Bob plans to become a long-haired wandering harmonica player, something he has always wanted to do. He looks forward to sleeping in on the first day of school next year and not having to switch between night and daytime hours. Bob expresses gratitude for the sense of pride instilled in him by Rick Adams and feels honored to have been part of a close-knit community. Congratulations, Bob Gridley, on your 26 years with the Algona Community School District!
Jean Davis
Jean Davis started her teaching career in Dubuque before moving back to Algona, where she was hired at the Middle School for 6th grade reading and language arts. With 35 years in education, 26 of which were with the Algona CSD, Jean will miss the moments when students finally grasp a concept and the camaraderie with staff. She hopes to stay connected with friends and will miss seeing her granddaughter at Bryant Elementary. The most satisfying part of her career has been fulfilling her childhood dream of being a teacher. Jean has learned to be flexible, gracious, and caring throughout her career. In retirement, she plans to spend more time with her family, travel, and finally get her passport. On the first day of school next year, Jean will be at the Feed Mill, greeting everyone on their way to school. She looks back on her 35 years in education with pride and would not change a thing, feeling accomplished when she sees her former students succeed. Jean is honored to finish her career in the Algona Community School District, a legacy that started with her family in 1956. Congratulations, Mrs. Davis, on your illustrious career!
Pictured from left: Jean Davis, Theresa Kuecker, Marilyn Berte, Keith Frideres, Bob Gridley