"It's always been about the kids," says Esther
Laughlin, on her final day before retirement
Thursday, the last day of school in Calhoun, was likely a memorable event for Arnoldsburg Elementary School cook, Esther Laughlin.
Principal Bryan Stern called a special assembly to honor Esther for her 35-years of service, and the kids, grades one through four, crowded around her, expressing their appreciation.
"It's always been about the kids," she said, "I've loved them all, trying to see they got a good meal, all they wanted."
Principal Sterns said "Around here they sometimes call her McEsther," but most of the students call her "the cooker lady."
"We still worked at those extras," said Esther, beside the giant mixer
Esther said much has changed with food service over the years, with much of the food now pre-prepared, but proudly acknowledged at Arnoldsburg they continued to bake rolls and biscuits.
"We've tried to do the special things and the kids have really enjoyed them," Esther said.
She said, and viritually all the staff chimed in, that Arnoldsburg school was "a wonderful place to work" and a great community school for kids.
"I've worked with some really fine people over the years, many who have done their jobs very well, educating and helping our children," Esther concluded.
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