The longest serving employee of Shire Christian School, Mrs Carol Guest, will retire at the end of this term, after 42 years of service in the school’s administration.
“It has been a great place to work,” Mrs Guest said.
“I have just loved the school, loved the people I’ve worked with. As they say, it’s felt like family here.”
Mrs Guest originally began volunteering at Shire Christian in 1980 when her children commenced at the school which was only in its infancy at the time.
“When I rang the school to enquire about enrolling my children, a young student answered the phone, “hello!”, Mrs Guest said.
“You don’t get that now!”
After seeing a need and taking up a voluntary position in the school’s office in 1981, Mrs Guest continued until 1987 when a formal, paid arrangement was established.
“Back then there were three of us in the office working part time. Dianna brought her own typewriter in, she did all the typing. And then Anne and I shared the other days.
“After a while it went up to full time and more recently it’s gone back to part time again,” she said.
For the past 42 years Mrs Guest has served with faithful commitment, greeting parents and students at reception, answering phone calls, providing administration support to teachers and office staff, and enthusiastically dedicating herself to the many other responsibilities that come with working in a diverse school office environment.
In more recent years, Mrs Guest has made a valuable contribution to the school’s archiving and has also provided administrative support for staff professional development.
“I love Shire Christian, I love the heritage of the school and the way that we continue to keep God’s word at the centre of all we do and teach,” she said.
“I have some wonderful memories and feel blessed to have been part of this school community and to have seen it grow from the humble early days to where it is today.”
Principal David Stonestreet said he was indebted to Mrs Guest for her steadfast and loyal service over many years.
“Carol encapsulates the commitment and sacrifice that has made Shire Christian School what it is today,” he said.
“Many people – parents, students, and staff members – have benefitted from Carol’s friendly demeanour and helpful resolve. As a school with an emphasis on building relationships, Carol’s enduring presence in our office has been vital, providing continuity and support for our families and staff.”
Since 1977 Shire Christian School has grown from a handful of children meeting in a church hall, to a thriving institution with almost 1000 students. Mrs Guest, and others like her, have been indispensable in ensuring the school has retained its Christian heritage and community, while looking to the future.
“Thank you, Carol, for everything you have done for Shire Christian School. You leave a wonderful legacy of commitment, faithfulness, and service,” Mr Stonestreet said.
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