The Brookings School District recently said farewell to sixteen retirees, including long-time Director of Business Services Brian Lueders. 

“When I started on July 1, 2005, I had no idea that I would retire in Brookings after 19 years of service,” Lueders said. “As a Brookings High School graduate of the class of ’85, I am proud that my three children have attended kindergarten through 12th grade in this district as well.”

During his years with the school district, Lueders’ office oversaw three bond elections — for Camelot Intermediate, Dakota Prairie Elementary, and most recently for the Hillcrest and Medary Elementary schools. He was also involved with the expansion projects at Mickelson Middle School and Brookings High School. 

“I have had the privilege of collaborating with an exceptional team to ensure the success and stability of our school district,” Lueders said. “I plan to remain in the Brookings area and will pursue new opportunities while taking the time to enjoy life with my wife Michelle and our three children — Braedon, Spencer, and Brooklyn. I would like to thank the school board, administration, teachers, and staff for their support over the years.”

He said Stacey VanBeek — former business manager for the Flandreau Public School District — will be taking over as director of business services in Brookings. Lueders’ last day with the district is June 30.

“I will miss the many friends I have made at the school district over the past several years and wish the Brookings School District the best in the future,” Lueders said. 

Also retiring from the Brookings School District — Susan Holida, Child Nutrition; Randy Luchtenburg, Teaching Assistant; Connie Harstad, School Nurse; Mary Cogswell, Band; Ellen Pengra, Special Education; Pam Carlson, Kindergarten; Brian Corlett, Math Interventionist; Merle Dick, Custodian; Mary Lunneborg, Librarian; Jule Bullington, Interventionist; Suzy Gehring, Reading Interventionist; Melita Hatfield, Teaching Assistant; Sue Neuman, First Grade; Karen Gordon, 6th Grade Science; and Holly Lunden, 7th Grade Reading.

Email Jay Roe at jroe@brookingsregister.com.