The Snowflake Unified School District Governing Board held its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, April 12. Over four dozen residents, district employees and family members were in attendance for a teary goodbye as SUSD Psychologist Gaylan Jones retired after 42 years of service to the district.
SUSD Student Services Director Cindy Peterson presented Jones with a retirement survival goody bag and personalized plaque thanking Jones for his service to the district and the community. Peterson had to hold back tears as she thanked Jones for the 42 years he has selflessly devoted to the district.
Jones both began and ended his career at the SUSD. He came to Snowflake fresh out of Brigham Young University and was one of the founding fathers of the Northeastern Arizona Students Special Services Association.
Jones has served as Student Services director and psychologist. “We figured out the other day that he averages 100 evaluations a year. He has done 4,200 evaluations for students in this district,” said Peterson. His dedication and the countless hours he has spent over the years make Jones almost irreplaceable.
Jones took the floor to thank everyone for coming. Jones quickly became overcome by emotion. “Thank you for coming. It has been a great time to be here,” said Jones. It was 42 years ago this month that Jones had his job interview with Larry Brewer. Jones choked back tears as he talked about the interview and the subsequent job offer. “I have never had a moment of regret. It has been a great community and a great place to work. Great people to work with, great people to associate with and great children to serve,” said Jones.
