Chippewa Valley Staff Member Gives Farewell Performance

Lori Kapolka can honestly say she retired with a song.

For nine years, Kapolka served as the pupil services coordinator for Chippewa Valley Schools, but will retire at end of the 2010-11 school year.

"I was very disappointed, but I've accepted it," said Interim Superintendent Ron Roberts of Kapolka's retirement. "She's considered this before and we've always managed to get her through it and I think now she just said, 'I'm really ready to go,' and we can't convince her otherwise."

Noting her thoroughness, accuracy, organization, baking and singing skills, Roberts said Kapolka has been an asset to the district since her arrival in 2002.

In her role as pupil services coordinator, Kapolka was responsible for submitting all state-mandated reports required to receive funding for the district. She was also instrumental in leading the transition to , a web-based program that provides parents access to real-time information about student’s grades, attendance, assignments and more.

"When it comes to enormous tasks, like the launch of the new PowerSchool program, Lori tackles them with enthusiasm," Roberts said. "She spends an extraordinary amount of time problem solving and working on issues with our staff."

Whether it's organizing extensive training sessions or problem solving with district staff, Roberts said Kapolka approaches every task with a smile and a laugh–even her retirement.

Urged by members of the board and friends present at Monday's board of education meeting, Kapolka gave her final farewell in song.

Singing a special PowerSchool-themed rendition of "Our Love is Here to Stay," Kapolka gave a retirement performance others will find hard to follow.

"I want to thank the board and Chippewa Valley Schools for the opportunity to work for this great district," she said. "I have worked hard, but along the way, I have had a lot of fun and a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment in the job I was hired to do. But more importantly to me are the people I have met and the friendships I have formed and that is really what I will think of the most when I think of Chippewa."