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Shaffer School Community Pride Night Honors Legacy, Service and Spirit

By Kaitlyn Midgely
LCOE Communications Specialist

On Thursday evening, Shaffer Elementary School hosted its annual Community Pride Night, a celebration of service, community, and school spirit that drew families, students, staff, and community partners together for an evening of heartfelt recognition and fun.

The highlight of the evening came during a surprise announcement by Principal and Superintendent Josh Blackburn, who unveiled that the Shaffer gymnasium would now be officially named in honor of long-time teacher and coach Ray Bailey.

A new engraved metal sign now hangs outside the gym, reading: “Dedicated in honor of Coach Ray Bailey, whose years of leadership, passion, and commitment to Shaffer athletics shaped generations of students.”

Ray Bailey, a respected math and science teacher and the driving force behind Shaffer’s athletic programs for decades, will be retiring at the end of this school year. Known for his steady presence, infectious spirit, and tireless dedication, Bailey’s reaction to the announcement was emotional and humble.

Principal Blackburn shared powerful remarks about Bailey’s enduring impact on the school and community, “Ray spent years teaching at Shaffer, guiding students with both wisdom and humor. But his contributions didn’t end in the classroom. He ran our athletics program, lined fields, led fundraisers, and never missed a chance to show up for our students. Naming the gym after him is a small tribute to the monumental impact he’s had.”

In addition to honoring Coach Bailey, Shaffer School recognized some other exceptional staff members:

Dianne Parady, for her 21 years in education — 1 year with the Lassen County Office of Education and 20 years at Shaffer School.

Shannon Polan, who spent 40 years in various roles at Shaffer including paraprofessional, cafeteria staff, and secretary.

Elise Williams was named Teacher of the Year, and Mikalah Gray received recognition as Classified Staff of the Year.

The night also featured student performances that were prepared by each grade level with the help of Shaffer’s music teacher Mr. Norocel.

There were also displays by local community safety partners, where students explored emergency vehicles and enjoyed interactive activities. Families gathered for a delicious tri-tip dinner sponsored by the school, while the Shaffer PTO hosted a silent auction to support school programs.

Shaffer School’s Community Pride Night was a powerful reminder of the lasting legacy of dedicated educators and the strength of a school community rooted in appreciation, collaboration, and pride.

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