When the students at Oak Knoll School return from their winter break in January, a familiar and much-loved face will be missing. After 42 years with the Menlo Park City School District, 35 of which were at Oak Knoll, office manager Barb Snow is retiring on December 18.
“It’s hard leaving as you get so connected,” Barb said. “The parents and kids become like family. There are never two days alike. You never get bored.
“The saddest day of the school year is the last day when it’s time to say good-bye to the graduating 5th graders.”
Current and past Oak Knoll families are invited to a celebration in Barb’s honor on Monday, December 14, from 2:55 to 4:00 pm on the upper playground (no rain) or in the gym (rain). Parents and kids will have the opportunity to sign a memory book, have a piece of cake. and give her a hug.
Barb grew up in Menlo, just up the hill from Oak Knoll. Her parents still reside in their home in Sharon Heights, and their advancing age — they’re both in their 90s — was one of the contributing factors in Barb’s decision to retire.
“It is only once in a great while that a special person like Barb comes around and stays around for [almost] 45 years,” wrote Oak Knoll principal Kristen Gracia, in announcing Barb’s retirement. “I am not sure how we got so lucky, but our staff will be forever grateful for Mrs. Snow’s service and dedication to the students, teachers, and community of Oak Knoll School and the Menlo Park City School District.
“We are excited for Barb and her family (especially her grandkids), but are sad to think about our school without her bright face and welcoming hugs!”
Visiting those grandkids who in live in the San Diego area will be one of Barb’s priorities. She’s also looking forward to doing some traveling in months other than July, which was her only option while working.
About choosing to leave in December, she said: “I wanted to go out during a happy time of year!”
Photo by Irene Searles
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