Pakanasink students and staff did more than show their love for Assistant Principal Colleen Delles this week. They left an impression she will remember forever.

 

Ms. Delles retires today after serving our district since 1998. She started as a special education teacher and moved on as assistant director of special programs nine years later. In 2011, she became assistant principal at Pakanasink and her path was set.

 

 

Ms. Delles has been instrumental in everything “PAK” ever since. Students and staff alike respect her leadership and vision, her relationship building with everyone involved – colleagues, parents and students. She always took the time to give the right advice when it was needed. Her bright, inviting smile revealed her enthusiasm and how much she cared for her students. And that was most important to her – her focus was always on the students of PAK.

 

 

So, on Wednesday, Nov. 19, Ms. Delles sat in the center of a near empty cafeteria. Her favorite music played over the speakers and a steady parade of classes, from pre-K up to fifth-grade, walked through, giving handmade cards and banners, high fives and so many hugs.

 

 

You could see the love for Ms. Delles in every student’s smile. Her unwavering care for the students and staff of PAK shone through. Her genuine devotion to the PAK community is unmistakable.

It was a send-off that those in attendance won’t soon forget.

 

 

PAK Principal Brian Breheny has worked with Ms. Delles for many years and considers himself fortunate to have done so.

“Throughout her career, Colleen has demonstrated unwavering commitment, kindness, and passion for supporting students, colleagues, and the school community,” said Mr. Breheny, her longtime colleague. “Her creativity, guidance, and positive spirit have made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work with her. We are grateful for Colleen’s many contributions and wish her a retirement filled with joy, relaxation, and exciting new adventures. Her legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

 

 

 

Thank you, Ms. Delles, for all you have given to our Pakanasink family and the entire Pine Bush District. Your dedication, compassion, and spirit have left an imprint that will be felt for years to come. We wish you the very best in your well-earned retirement— and remember, please don’t be a stranger.