As Lisa Kaczmarczyk, associate principal, opened the guidance office door, she was greeted by a peculiar scene: a large cluster of congratulate MHS staff members, anxiously awaiting the presentation of Kaczmarczyk’s well deserved Rose Award.

“I think my face might have shown how surprised I was,” Kaczmarczyk said. “All I could say was ‘thank you,’ and ‘wow.’”

Chosen from a pool of an estimated 200 nominations, Kaczmarczyk’s award recognizes her for outstanding service and contribution throughout this school year.

One of several MHS staff members to nominate Kats, Dr. Mathison, head principal, said Kaczmarczyk’s undeniable commitment to MHS makes her a well deserving awardee.

“She’s pretty phenomenal as an administrator,” Mathison said. “There aren’t many people out there who have the skills, the years in leadership, and the years in service to kids in our district.”

Mathison said that when the district struggled to find a replacement for the former associate principal, the MHS administration was caught in a tough position. However, Kaczmarczyk willingly returned from retirement to fill her former position.

“She wanted to do what was in the best interest of Marquette,” Mathison said. “She loves this school so much, and that just tells a lot about her character and her passion for our school. There is no one more deserving.”

Concerned for MHS wellbeing, Kaczmarczyk said she accepted the job because it was the right thing to do.

“It’s been a great year,” Kaczmarczyk said. “When I sat down at my desk and I took the job, it was just like the previous four years disappeared; just like riding a bike.”

Kaczmarczyk will be honored, along with the district’s other Rose Awardees, at a ceremony in the near future.