Susie is so much more than the administrative secretary at our school. She is the heart of our school community. For years, Susie has been the person everyone can count on. She has supported students, families, teachers, staff, and administrators through countless busy days, difficult moments, celebrations, and changes. No matter how much she has on her plate, she has a remarkable way of making the person standing in front of her feel like they are the most important thing in the world. That is simply who Susie is. She is extraordinarily kind, generous, patient, and caring. She remembers the little things. She notices when someone needs help. She finds a way to solve problems, comfort people, and make our school feel like a family. So many of us have been on the receiving end of her kindness, often in ways she probably does not even realize.

Now, after spending so many years taking care of everyone else, Susie is the one who needs us. Susie recently lost her home of 31 years in the HAWK Fire. In a matter of moments, the place that held more than three decades of memories, belongings, comfort, and security was gone. It is difficult to imagine the heartbreak and overwhelming uncertainty that comes with a loss like this. We are creating this fundraiser because Susie has given so much of herself to our school and our community, and we want to surround her with the same love and support she has so freely given to all of us. Funds raised will help Susie with immediate expenses and the enormous task of rebuilding her life in the weeks and months ahead.

No amount is too small, and every donation, share, kind word, and gesture of support will mean more than we can say. If you have ever been greeted by Susie’s smile, helped by her when you needed something, comforted by her kindness, or simply had your day made a little better because she was there, we hope you will consider helping us take care of her now. Susie has spent years making sure none of us had to face things alone. Let’s make sure she doesn’t have to, either.