Tishana Cundiff’s Retirement as the Director of Special Education

This entry is a tribute to an extraordinary person who has devoted her career to children and more specifically to those with special needs. Tishana Cundiff, my mother, began her career at Liberty Middle School in 1981 as a general education teacher of grades 6-8. In spring of 1986, she began teaching special education and spent the majority of that assignment at the high school. She is now retiring after 7 years as the Director of Special Education at the Casey County Board of Education. She now retires after 31 years with Casey County Schools. While in the school system, she devoted time beyond her classroom duties to students. Some of her extracurricular activities included: Liberty Middle School Cheerleading Sponsor, Casey County High School Prom Sponsor, Project Graduation Co-Sponsor, Academic Team Coach, and Governor’s Cup Team Coach.

This past year, I had the pleasure of working in the Special Education Department at Walnut Hill Elementary School, enabling me to see my mom in action. I was able to witness her tremendous problem solving skills and hear how admirably her colleagues speak of her. It was an amazing experience for me to be able to see her in this setting. Not only does she attempt every aspect of her job with passion and precision, but she works night and day to make sure the job is done to her standards. She truly cares about the quality of care and education that children receive. No matter how tough or challenging the situation, she seeks to find a solution.

On Tuesday July 24, 2012 the Board of Education hosted a small gathering to honor Mrs. Cundiff’s departure. Her retirement becomes official the first of August. She and my father, Ken Cundiff, also a retired teacher, are looking forward to traveling and visiting with their family, both in Kentucky and those living up and down the East coast.

Mrs. Cundiff getting “roasted” by superintendent, Linda Hatter.

The Board wanted her to know how very “special” she is and how much her post-it habits would be missed.

On behalf of the Board, Mrs. Hatter presented Mrs. Cundiff with many playful items for her future vacations and travels.

Joyce Hayes honoring Mrs. Cundiff.

Mrs. Cundiff with her mother, Lena Bradshaw and stepfather, Avon Bradshaw.

Mrs. Cundiff with her stepmother, Sara Hodges and father, Lonnie Hodges.

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