THE work of Marburg State School’s long term staff member, Lola Rasmussen, was applauded at a recent morning tea at the school.
Lola, who lives in Marburg has been the school cleaner for 27 years and has now retired.
She was the centre of attention at the morning tea, where she was described as the “backbone of the school community”.
Lola began her work with the Education Department on August 16, 1995, first as a casual filling in for Audrey Boughen when required and as a permanent staff member the following year.
Across the almost three decade long involvement with the school, Lola has watched students start their first day, graduate and in turn, bring their own children to the school.
Teacher aide Monique Meier said Lola has worked “above and beyond to always make sure that the school was clean and that the students were cared for”.
“All the students look up to Lola and in some ways they relate to her just like a grandmother, because of her caring and nurturing personality,” she said.
“During school activities and events Lola has always been there together with her husband Adrian who is the groundsman of the school.”
Relaxing, travelling and enjoying time in the garden is now on the agenda for Lola who was farewelled by a guard of honour as she left the schoolgrounds for the last time.
Business Manager of Small Schools Lynelle Yarrow commended Lola on her dedication to the school.
“She completed split shifts from the early hours of the morning in the dark and the cold and then returned each afternoon to face it all over again,” Lynelle said.
“Thank you for creating a safe and clean environment for both the staff and the students at the school, you have been the quiet hero,” she said.
“Always the first to arrive and more often than not the last to leave, we would be a mess without you and you were always appreciated.
“May you be proud of the work that you have done, the person you are and the difference that you have made.”
