Leaving a Lasting Legacy in USD 345

Posted on 05/13/2026

For generations of students, families, and staff across the Seaman School District, these retirees have been far more than employees. They have been mentors, encouragers, leaders, role models, and steady presences in the lives of countless students. This year, USD 345 celebrates a remarkable group of retirees for their years of positive impact in classrooms, hallways, buses, libraries, activities, and our entire school community.

At Elmont Elementary, Annette Myers became known not only for fostering a love of reading, but for creating opportunities that made literacy exciting for students year after year. Through reading challenges, book fairs, literacy events, author visits, and digital citizenship initiatives, Annette consistently found ways to enrich learning experiences for students while also supporting staff throughout the building. Her leadership extended beyond Elmont through service on district committees, including multiple years leading the district Professional Development Committee. Colleagues describe Annette as someone always willing to step up and help wherever needed, leaving a lasting impact on both the building and district.

Julie Lambrecht, from West Indianola, leaves behind a legacy of compassion, patience, and care after serving students across virtually every grade level. Known for her calm presence, encouraging spirit, and flexibility, Julie helped create environments where students felt safe, supported, and valued. Her reliability, teamwork, and heartfelt care made a lasting difference for both students and staff members alike.

Also from West Indianola, Joleen Yapp dedicated her career to elementary classrooms, teaching multiple grade levels while becoming known for her kindness, wisdom, and collaborative spirit. Whether mentoring colleagues, serving on committees, or sharing creativity through quilting, crafting, baking, and her well-known cinnamon rolls, Joleen’s warmth and commitment to students left a lasting impression on the Cardinal family.

Grace Davey, another West Indianola retiree, spent her career faithfully serving students as both a paraeducator and bus driver. Her calm, caring nature and hands-on support made her a trusted and beloved presence for students, staff, and families. Often seen walking hand-in-hand with young students through the hallways, Grace built relationships rooted in kindness, patience, and unwavering support that will continue to be remembered long after her retirement.

At Logan Elementary, Cindy Harrelson became part of the school’s identity through years of dedicated service as a first-grade teacher. She helped generations of students build confidence, independence, and a love for learning during some of the most formative years of childhood. Colleagues admired her professionalism, wisdom, and steady presence, while students benefited from the warmth and high expectations she brought to her classroom each day. Beyond her impact in education, Cindy’s iconic style and joyful presence became part of the fabric of Logan Elementary itself.

Beth Smith’s career in special education has been defined by fierce advocacy, resilience, and unwavering dedication to students. She consistently fought for children who needed someone to believe in them and became a trusted source of support for students, families, and staff. Her knowledge, leadership, compassion, and faith helped shape not only student success, but also the culture of Logan Elementary. Beth’s influence will continue through the countless lives she touched throughout her career.

Cary Stahly leaves behind a program and legacy built from the ground up through years of vision, leadership, and commitment to students. Known for his deep knowledge, humor, and ability to challenge students while making them feel supported, Cary helped shape a program that continues to thrive today. Though recognition may not have been his favorite thing, colleagues agree his impact on students at Seaman High School, Seaman Middle School, and the district is impossible to overstate.

For many at Seaman Middle School, Lance Dougan became synonymous with making school enjoyable for students. Former students continue to share stories about how he made their school days more fun and memorable. Through more than two decades of service, Lance built relationships that extended far beyond the classroom and remained a dependable source of support for colleagues and students alike.

At Seaman High School, several retirees leave behind extraordinary legacies of service and leadership.

Linda Shaffer faithfully supported students in the Multi-Level program with patience, consistency, and compassion. During one of education’s most challenging periods, she stepped into an emergency substitute role to ensure students continued receiving the support they needed. Her weekly cookie sales with students became opportunities for learning, connection, and pride within the classroom community.

Kate Welch brought unmatched positivity and enthusiasm to Seaman High School. As assistant principal, she immersed herself fully in student life, from homecoming festivities to fine arts and extracurricular activities. Her ability to connect with students, staff, parents, and community members created a culture of encouragement and joy throughout the building.

Craig Cox built meaningful relationships with students and staff through his steady presence, positivity, and genuine care for others. Whether teaching, coaching, or stepping into roles wherever needed, Coach Cox consistently focused on supporting students and finding joy in the everyday moments that make education meaningful.

Cassie Cowan devoted her career to serving students in special education, becoming known as the “Swiss Army Knife” of the department because of her willingness to step in and help wherever needed. Her compassion, dedication, and problem-solving mindset positively impacted generations of Vikings and left a lasting mark on Seaman High School.

Julie Kizzar spent decades building meaningful relationships and helping students navigate challenges on their way to success. She especially treasured graduation ceremonies, where she could celebrate the growth and perseverance of students she had supported throughout their high school years.

Shelly Prengel helped define the spirit and culture of Seaman High School through her work as both a teacher and administrator. Deeply invested in relationships, school pride, and student experiences, Shelly brought energy, leadership, and heart into every aspect of school life. Whether coaching, participating in spirit weeks, or leading students and staff, she consistently made Seaman High School feel like home.

Together, these retirees represent an extraordinary legacy of service to the Seaman School District. Their impact cannot be measured simply in years, but in the relationships built, the students encouraged, the traditions strengthened, and the countless lives changed along the way.

Congratulations on their upcoming retirement and this well-earned next chapter.