GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — School may be out for the summer, but there’s still countless people working behind the scenes at School District 51. Let’s meet our June Golden Apple winner, Bridget Story.

Bridget is the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent. She’s worked for School District 51 for 30 years. During that time she’s become an integral part of the organization. She’s worked many different roles throughout the district during her career. She originally got involved with D51 through volunteering at her kids school. From there, she’s worked as a substitute, she’s worked in special education, she’s been in office roles, and she’s worked in her current role at the administration building. 

After 30 years, Bridget is set to retire later this month. When asked about retirement, she said “I mean, I’m going to miss a lot, and keeping busy, but I think I can figure that out once I retire. And, I can always come back and volunteer.”

Day to day, Bridget does a little bit of everything, from screening calls to board meeting minutes. D51 Superintendent, Dr. Brian Hill, told us “I joke with people and say, ‘you know, I’m the superintendent, but she’s really running the whole district’ because of the impact that she’s had. She’s been such a great asset to our community and our district.” 

Bridget is very humble. While she appreciates the award, she thinks there are other people who deserve it more. She told us, “I mean it’s really nice, but I think there’s a lot of other people out there who deserve it more than I do.” While Bridget may not feel she deserves the recognition, everyone around her disagrees. Upon her retirement, she will be leaving some big shoes to fill, but all her coworkers are excited for her next chapter in life and wish her nothing but the best.

Dr. Hill shared these words wishing Bridget well heading into her retirement, “Thank you Bridget for everything you’ve done for our district, we’re excited for your next steps in your journey, but we are going to miss you so much and thank you for everything you’ve done for our students, families, and staff.” 

Congratulations Bridget on your retirement and on winning a Golden Apple award, and thanks for your dedication to School District 51.