Newly retired teacher still making a difference

Vehicles, including bicycles, school buses, fire department trucks, and even heavy equipment, started arriving for the “retirement parade” before 11:45!

After an interrupted school year, Kathy O’Mara wanted to do up her “last day of school” the right way. So on June 12, the day that should have been the last day for teachers and students, all students, alumni, staff, and community members were invited to do a drive-by parade starting at 11:45 in the Klager Bus Loop. Attendees were invited to bring a box of cereal to add to the Community Resource Center food pantry and the school meals program.

And, what a parade it was! With a special tiara and lots of smiles, O’Mara greeted 112 vehicles, lots of them specially decorated, and received well wishes from her many friends in Manchester along with 286 boxes of cereal, all of which will stay within the community to feed those who need it most.

It was an amazing outpouring for a teacher who has given so much to so many, throughout her 30+ years in the district. And it was a satisfying feeling for O’Mara, as well.

“It was a great way to go out,” she said. “I recommend it for anyone retiring!”

Thanks, Mrs. O’Mara, for all you have done!

Blue skies and plenty of boxes of cereal made it a perfect day for Mrs. O’Mara’s retirement parade to collect cereal to help feed those in Manchester who are hungry.

And don’t forget the heavy equipment …

Even bicycles were part of the special parade.

We all know where Mrs. O’Mara stands on the U of M vs. MSU debate.

Even “The Rock” at the high school was redecorated in honor of Mrs. O’Mara.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.