A Clifton ISD graphic promoting the “Retirement and Years of Service Recognition” event held May 21, 2026 at the Performing Arts Center. The design features a turquoise-to-green gradient background with a beach theme including palm trees, sand, ocean waves and a green-and-white beach umbrella. The Clifton ISD logo appears at the top above the event title in bold lettering.

Clifton ISD Celebrates Staff at End of Year Awards Ceremony

Tiffany Jones

June 9, 2026

Clifton ISD Honors Retirees and Years of Service Recipients

Clifton Independent School District honored employees for their dedication, commitment and service during the annual Retirement and Years of Service Recognition Ceremony held Thursday, May 21st in the Performing Arts Center.

During the celebration, Clifton ISD Superintendent Andy Ball recognized nine retirees for the 2025-2026 school year. Collectively, these individuals have made a lasting impact on students, staff, families and the Clifton community through decades of service and leadership across the district and beyond.

The 2025-2026 Clifton ISD retirees include:

  • Keith Goedecke, Clifton Elementary School Assistant Principal (42 years)

  • Sheila Berg, Clifton Elementary School Teacher (36 years)

  • Tim Vannatta, Clifton Middle School/Clifton High School Teacher and Coach (34 years)

  • Lee Ann Bosher, Clifton High School Paraprofessional (33 years)

  • Karen Schasteen, Special Programs Director (31 years)

  • Lynda Buckingham, Clifton Elementary School Interventionist (30 years)

  • Ron Smith, CISD Bus Driver (18 years)

  • Julie Davis, Clifton Middle School/Clifton High School Paraprofessional (23 years)

  • Sherry Minatra, Clifton Elementary School Paraprofessional (7 years)

Each of these individuals has played an important role in shaping the culture and success of Clifton ISD. Their commitment to students and to our district will continue to impact #TeamCISD for years to come.

Clifton ISD staff members pose together during the Retirement and Years of Service Recognition Program held at the Performing Arts Center.

Left to right: Julie Davis, Lynda Buckingham, Sheila Berg, Lee Ann Bosher, Keith Goedecke, Sherry Minatra, Ron Smith Not Pictured: Karen Schasteen and Tim Vannatta

In addition to recognizing retirees, Clifton ISD also celebrated employees reaching milestone years of service within the district.

30 Years of Service

  • Angie Zuehlke

25 Years of Service

  • Dee Pickett

  • Kara Ripley

  • Blanca Soto

15 Years of Service

  • Andy Ball

  • Keith Blanton

  • Cinthya Fernandez

10 Years of Service

  • Robin Blakeney

  • Melissa Christensen

5 Years of Service

  • Lidia Arreola

  • Delanie Atkinson

  • Robyn Benedict

  • Amy Brown

  • Wes Brown

  • Lynda Buckingham

  • Jennifer DeJong

  • Trevor Ernst

  • Tiffany Garcia

  • Angela Hanson

  • Kellie Mathis

  • Toshia Napieralski

  • Kaitlyn Pierce

  • Michelle Perry

  • Imilda Sarate Olsen

  • Andra Slater

  • Tarin “Mr. T” Tranquilino

  • Tim Vannatta

The district expressed appreciation for the dedication and contributions of every employee recognized during the ceremony. Their service reflects Clifton ISD’s continued commitment to excellence, student success and building strong relationships throughout the community.

Clifton ISD congratulates all retirees and years of service honorees and thanks them for the positive difference they have made across #TeamCISD.