Name: Brad Thompson

Position: Drama and choir teacher, Hughson High

Years in the district: I started in the 1995-96 school year, which would be 30 years.

Favorite memories/accomplishments: My favorite memories are of the people in our district. I love the staff, parents and students we have. We have been blessed with some great leaders (Randy Heckman and Debra Davis were superintendent and principal when I came). Our present superintendent and principal have taken the district to new heights. I don’t think we have ever been in better hands.

What will you miss the most? The people, without a doubt. I have thought of how strange it will be when I turn in my key on that last day. When I come back and visit at plays, games and concerts, it will never be the same. I will be on the outside, rather than the inside. I have loved being on the inside and working with so many wonderful colleagues. It has been a wonderful 30 years.

Any special retirement plans? Oh, yes! By this time next year, we will have cruised with our grandkids through the Panama Canal, zip-lined over the jungle in Costa Rica, climbed the pyramids with grandkids in Guatemala, visited Mexico, continued vacations with our grandkids in a cabin in the Rocky Mountains and other resorts, visited the grandkids all around the country at their homes, watched their games and plays, and more. We are dedicated and enthusiastic grandparents and excited for this opportunity to be with them more.