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After 33 years of services, Warsaw Community Schools announced last night that Della Swain, transportation director, would be replaced by Cheryl Cook.

Swain, who is retiring on Sunday, June 30, was honored by the board in this month’s staff recognition. Swain started at WCS as a classroom assistant at Lincoln Elementary. After 6 years spent at Lincoln, Swain was moved to work as the secretary at the transportation department. According to WCS Superintendent Dr. Craig Hintz, after 3 years in her position, Swain stepped into the role of director that she would serve in for the next 24 years. Hintz presented Swain with a plaque commemorating her work for the school district.

“We had the opportunity to salute Della at our administrative meeting last Tuesday,” stated Hintz as he presented the plaque. “Della is completing 33 years of service on June 30, of this month. She has been very active in the state association and even the national association. Its always hard to say goodbye to a veteran member of our staff … I’d like to say happy trails until we meet again.”

Though Swain is technically retiring from her position, she noted that she will be continuing her work on the federal and state transportation boards as well as several of her roles. In addition, Hintz stated Swain plans to work in her yard with her flowers as well as in her church.

“Yes I’m retiring in a sense, but they did ask me continue at the state and national levels so I’m really excited about that,” said Swain in an address to the board. “(I will also be continuing my work) for the school bus safety poster contest and with the special needs transportation committee.

“It’s been great … we’ve been through a lot of things together. It’s been a lot of great experiences through the transportation department and through the school corporation. I’ve been really proud to be part of Warsaw schools.”

Cheryl Cook will begin her duties Monday, July 1. She holds both a computer programing degree and a Bachelor of Science Degree in organization management. She has served as the routing specialist and administrative assistant for the school corporation since 1997.

In addition to Cook’s new appointment, Michael Snavley has been named the assistant director of transportation for WCS. Snavley holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in business administration and an A.A.S. in automotive technology. Snavley will also begin his duties July 1.

In a statement provided by WCS, Hintz stated, “I am highly confident that our new leaders at the Transportation Center will provide first class service to the students, parents and staff that we are so privileged to serve. Warsaw Community Schools welcomes these two individuals to their new roles in our school community. Their leadership will fulfill our mission, “to inspire and equip all students to continuously acquire and apply knowledge and skills while pursuing their dreams and enriching the lives of others.”