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Every week we celebrate SMCDSB staff members who have been recognized by a parent, student or colleague.
This week we are celebrating Karen Leavitt, Lori Murray and Derek Murray.
Karen is the school office administrator at St. Jean Vianney Catholic School in Barrie. She was nominated by a colleague, who said:
“Karen Leavitt is the heart of St. John Vianney School! There isn't a student,
family member, staff member or visitor to our school who does not receive a gracious and friendly welcome. She is the first friendly face everyone sees when they come to our school and her kindness and professionalism represents us well. Karen performs every task with efficiency, skill and good humour! The multitude of tasks that make her day a busy one do not interfere with her care and compassion for our SJV family. Our students are always her first priority and she works hard to make sure that any difficulties are solved. From losing a tooth, a forgotten lunch, band aid, ice for an "injury," calls home for those suffering ailments, Karen handles them all with calmness and warmth. Her self-deprecating humour has her crowned as the "Princess" of SJV. She deserves the tiara! Thank You Mrs. Leavitt!!!!”
Lori Murray is the school office administrator and Derek Murray is the chief custodian at St. Mary's Catholic School in Collingwood. They were nominated by a colleague, who said:
“Mr. and Mrs. Murray are such fantastic people who are a true pleasure to be around. Mrs. Murray is the secretary at our school and she does such an amazing 
job. I have personally seen her deal with several different situations at the exact same time and she handles it all with such class and grace. She works so hard and is such a pleasure to work with. When you walk into the school she greets you with such kindness and would do anything for anyone. She’s a special lady who deserves some recognition. Thank you for being so awesome, Mrs. Murray.
Mr. Murray is such a hard working, helpful man. He’s always so quick to help anyone in need and has been known to lend an ear and be there for people when they need him. He works hard to make our school a safe and sparkly place. He always takes the time to talk to the children as he’s going by and tries to make people laugh. He is an awesome man who deserves some recognition. Thank you for everything you do, Mr. Murray.
I know I speak on behalf of everyone when I say thank you to you both for all your hard work.”
We would like to thank Karen, Lori and Derek for their commitment to Catholic education at our board.
If you would like to recognize the efforts of a SMCDSB staff member, please take a moment to fill out our Celebrating Staff Form.