Rusty Lemcke, retiring director of transportation for Central Community Unit School District 301, was thanked recently for his 21 years of service, which included many nights and early mornings.
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Superintendent Todd Stirn said Lemcke was one of the first people he met on the job. Lemcke was originally hired as director of buildings and grounds.
“Rusty is always here from early morning until late at night and especially during weather emergencies,” Stirn said. “In times of crisis when you need a steady hand, he has been there for us. While he has been the director of transportation, we have watched the department grow.”
The transportation department is responsible for getting approximately 3,800 students to and from school each day. The fleet of 72 buses runs approximately 200 routes daily within district boundaries as well as providing transportation to students who require special services outside the district.
In addition to Lemcke, the transportation department includes Pam Porto, transportation coordinator; Sheila Goehrke, safety coordinator, and Dan Dalke, chief mechanic.
Stirn presented Lemcke with a clock in recognition of his years of service.
“Thank you for all you have done for District 301,” Stirn said.
“I have enjoyed my time here,” Lemcke said. “It was a great opportunity to serve this community.”
He will be replaced by Tracie Duffield, who will start at the end of the school year. She is assistant transportation director for Byron Community Unit School District 226.
Duffield’s new job will be like a homecoming.
“I graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1989,” she said.
Denise Moran is a freelance reporter.