Thursday, June 13th, was Saint Joseph School students’ final day of the 2023-2024 school year. In addition, after 42 years, it was the final day of school for their beloved Third Grade Instructor, Mrs. Donna Recko. It was certainly an emotional day that began with breakfast at her desk and bouquets from her family. In addition, the teachers gave her a unique “retirement” crown and sash. Then, her family, students, and fellow teachers escorted her to the church for the final Mass of the school year. Following the end-of-year Mass, students receive certificates recognizing their achievements. However, in addition to the students receiving awards, Headmaster Rev. Grzegorz Chodkowski and Principal Mrs. Beth Boudreau presented Mrs. Recko with a token of their appreciation for her 42 years of dedicated service and for shaping minds and inspiring Christian Values. The award, a symbol of their deep gratitude, also noted that she will always be in their hearts and part of their school family and history.
As Mrs. Recko left the church, the students, deeply touched by her influence, lined the walkway to bid her a final farewell. Their affection for her was not just visible but palpable as they hugged her and presented her with 42 strings of beads, each symbolizing a year of her devoted service. The gesture brought tears to Mrs. Recko and the faculty and staff who looked on—the morning concluded with a heartfelt luncheon at Bistro Eighty Ates, where the faculty presented Mrs. Recko with a unique bracelet, a tangible reminder that she will always hold a cherished place in their hearts and prayers.
Mrs. Recko grew up in Webster and followed in the footsteps of her parents, Thomas and Reine (Starosta) Gorski, by attending Saint Joseph School. She graduated in 1971. She then graduated from Bartlett High School in 1975 and the College of the Holy Cross in 1979. Her siblings, Denise, Tom Jr., Tina Gorski-Strong, and her children, Jessica Ryan, Jenna Maguire, and Jillian Recko, also attended Saint Joseph School.
During her 42 years as a teacher at Saint Joseph School, Mrs. Recko’s commitment was unwavering. She taught Third Grade for 40 of those years and served the school in various other roles. She was a Floor Coordinator, Homework Room Supervisor, a Saint Joseph School Consultative School Board and NEASC Accreditation Committee member, and a Home and School Association parent and faculty representative. Mrs. Recko was instrumental in establishing a successful Saint Joseph School Athletic Program, serving as the Assistant Athletic Director, a cheerleading coach, and co-chair of the Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser for many years. In 2018, Saint Joseph School awarded Mrs. Recko the “Partners in Education Award,” which is presented to people who’ve made a significant impact on the school community.
Her involvement also extended beyond the school. She was an active member of the parish Women’s Club, serving on the board and as a liaison to the Felician Sisters. She could always be found at the pastry booth, selling delicious homemade items yearly at the festival. Her life has been a testament to her dedication to the Saint Joseph Community.
Saint Joseph School wishes Mrs. Recko a joyful retirement and hopes this new chapter is filled with beautiful moments with her husband, James, her children, and grandchildren Tyler Bushey, Ethan Ryan, Noah Ryan, and Liam Maguire.
As the school bids her a happy retirement, they do so with the hope that she will continue to be a part of their community somehow. They eagerly look forward to seeing her at future school events, knowing her presence will always be a source of joy and inspiration.
