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Date: 5/16/2023
CHICOPEE — Several retirees from Chicopee Public Schools were recognized during the School Committee meeting on May 10.
Interim Superintendent Alvin Morton shared remarks about each of the individuals.
Chicopee Comprehensive High School culinary teacher David Cerpovicz will be retiring after 33 years. Morton said Cerpovicz was “instrumental” when the culinary arts program transitioned from Chicopee High School.
Richard Hartbarger was a paraprofessional for 10 years. “Mr. Hartbarger for the past 10 years has enriched the lives of the students at Bowie Memorial Elementary School with his caring, compassionate and caring teaching style,” Morton said.
He continued, “[Hartbarger] created a welcoming and enthusiastic learning atmosphere that his students looked forward to in addition to always providing the staff with never ending stories that would always put a smile on their faces.”
Chicopee Academy Principal John Leonard is retiring after 18 years. Leonard began his career as a math teacher in 2005. In 2009, he was appointed as principal of Chicopee Academy. “Principal Leonard can be described as a number one advocate for everything Chicopee Academy,” shared Morton. “He will definitely be missed on a personal and professional level.”
Elizabeth Maciolek, a special education paraprofessional, has served the Chicopee Public Schools for 10 years. “[Maciolek] has been a dedicated staff member and is always willing to help out. She is kindhearted and always going the extra mile,” said Morton.
He went on to say that every day, Maciolek greets students with hugs and big smiles, and praises the students for their work, making them feel proud of themselves. Morton said she is a team player and is always working with the staff and doing what is best for the students.
Spanish teacher Lisa Martin will be retiring from Chicopee High School after 30 years. Martin started in Chicopee in 1984. Working as a Spanish teacher, Martin is also the world language supervisor. “She has dedicated her career to the students of Chicopee High School,” said Morton.
Martin also started and runs the International and Multicultural clubs and has put on several fundraisers.
Cindy O’Leary, a paraprofessional at Bowe Elementary, has worked in the district for more than 25 years. Morton said, “O’Leary is a kind, patient, giving and compassionate person. She helps keep the students focused [and] on task, while taking the time to meet each student’s needs.”
Chicopee Comprehensive High School automotive teacher David Williams will also be retiring after 25 ½ years. Williams has been a member of the automotive technology department at Chicopee Comprehensive for 24 years. “He was instrumental in starting our SkillsUSA program back in the late 90s. We wish him good luck on the next chapter of his life,” Morton said.
“I want to thank all the retirees for the service they provided for the Chicopee Public Schools and their families. Thank you and you will definitely be missed,” he concluded.