Rod Kalmakoff was less than two weeks away from retirement when he got the call to stay on for another year.
The community recognized his 33 years as an educator in the system and 28 years as principal of Ratushniak Elementary School with a tea and celebration June 17. The school's gymnasium was packed with well-wishers who listened to various speakers, including Kalmakoff's father, and a song sung by his sister. There were letters read from former students and the walls were decorated with cards made by current students giving him advice for his future hobbies, sharing their memories and thanking him for all he does.
Gifts were presented by the staff and photographs were hung to show his smiles and students through the years.
Kalmakoff thanked the board, his family, the staff, parents and teachers in a short speech.
"It was great to have you as my students, you made the job worthwhile. I looked forward to every day with anticipation, a tie and a smile," he said.
He shared why he loved being involved in the education system and finished off with the words "remember my belief that education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your school, your community and world better than you found it."
Kalmakoff will be spending another year doing what he loves and the students will have another year to enjoy his smile and his collection of neckties. Just days after the tea Kalmakoff was offered and accepted a contract for one more year at the school due to a chain of events that will keep incoming principal Shawn Larson in Hillmond for another year.
