Riverbank Unified School District is saying farewell to Darlene Ribeiro, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, as she has retired. Friday, Dec. 18 – just prior to the long Christmas-New Year holiday break, was her last day with the district. Her life’s journey will now continue down a new road after spending 26 years in education.

“It is hard to say goodbye, there are so many people who have touched my life over these past years,” said Ribeiro. “I would like to express my thanks to the Board of Trustees for their tireless work on behalf of the school district and to Superintendent (Christine) Facella for her leadership. It has been a privilege to work with so many outstanding staff and administrators over my 26 years with the district, and I will take those wonderful memories with me.”

There are a few others retiring this school year from RUSD including Marisa Moya-33 years, Tony Contreras-26 years, James Boling-22 years, Steve Carmack-22 years, Cheryl Galvan-Azevedo-21 years, and Linda Rhoden-13 years.

“I have made many friends over the years, and know we (retirees) will all miss Riverbank Unified School District staff, students and community,” added Ribeiro.

The outgoing executive assistant also offered thanks to News reporter Virginia Still for “inspiring stories and your support of our schools, the district and community.”

Ribeiro began her career in education in 1994 as the Principal’s Secretary at Milnes Elementary. In 1996 she took on a position with Riverbank High School as the Registrar until 2010. Then she moved over to the District office as the Administrative Assistant-Personnel through 2012 and then took on the role as HR Manager. From 2012 to current day she held the position of Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, first serving Dr. Daryl Camp and now with the current superintendent, Christine Facella.

“Words can’t really express how much Darlene will be missed in our district,” expressed Facella. “She has helped everyone at one time or another in the district office. For me though, she has been such a great asset and so helpful from my transition to Superintendent until today.”

The two have worked together in one capacity or another within the District for the past 10 years. Facella was the Principal at RHS when Ribeiro was the registrar there.

The new chapter of retirement for Ribeiro will include some travel and quality time with family. She was recognized at a December school board meeting and was given a plaque to commemorate her time of service with the district.