Here is the text of Betty Ann Garlak's introduction of Gail:

I have the pleasure of introducing my friend, Gail Ryder. Gail has taught in RO for 31 years - one year at TAG, the others in preschool, Chapter One, 3rd grade and mostly first. I was her neighbor across the hall at Lincoln. After Lincoln closed, Gail moved to Oakland, where she has taught 1st grade for the past 3 years. 

Gail is an extraordinary person and teacher! She has touched many lives. All that have met Gail have fond memories. She not only inspired her students, but many teachers as well. I’ve learned a lot from her. She has her own effective style of teaching, and her students always met success, especially as young 1st grade readers. And they always had fun and felt good about themselves. 

There are a lot of special memories from 31 years! Since Gail was a 1st grade teacher, which is an accomplishment in itself, I thought it would be appropriate to put together - The ABC’s of Miss Ryder. I won't share A to Z tonight, just a few highlights. 

A-   accordian

D-   dedication, desk that was famous for being messy, “at my finger tips”

G-   generosity, Growing Dusty, Goodbye to DRA, NCA, MLPP

K-  keys in refrigerator

M-  Murial Shepherd, trip to Minnesota

P-  “play attention" Polar Express

Y-   always young at heart

Z-  zest for teaching and life

In the future, Gail will probably be on the golf course, because she is a great golfer, or traveling. She will be working at Alex Delvechio Enterprises with advertisement promotions and spending time with many friends and close family members. 

There will be a huge void without Gail Ryder in our district. She is truly one-of-a-kind! We’ll remember her warmth, friendliness, and sense of humor!