The Administrative Assistant Who Became Everyone’s Mentor

After 24 years as an administrative assistant at South Middleton School District, Laurie Strayer’s retirement wasn’t met with a typical goodbye. Instead, her coworkers wanted the chance to put into words just how much she meant to them — and how much she’s going to be missed.

Over more than two decades, Laurie became far more than a colleague to the people around her. She’s been described as a mentor, a student advocate, a guide for parents, and, for many, simply irreplaceable.

“From being absolutely terrified of Mrs. Strayer at BSHS, to calling her my mentor, colleague, friend, and No. 1 on speed dial — full circle,” one former student turned coworker said.

Laurie’s reputation for going above and beyond followed her throughout her career. Colleagues describe her as someone who always found a way to help, no matter how small the request, and who brought a steady, glass-half-full mindset to even the most stressful days at the district.

“Laurie knew her job inside and out and was always willing to help when I had a question,” one coworker said. “Whether it was reminding me to adjust a calendar, a marking period date, or setting up course codes, she was always on top of things and happy to help.”

What made her impact so lasting wasn’t just her expertise — it was the relationships she built along the way. Coworkers recall inside jokes, shared traditions, and the kind of trust that builds only after years of showing up for each other, day after day.

“She could bring sanity to any situation, and she made learning as educators fun,” one colleague said.

As Laurie steps into retirement, her colleagues say her legacy at South Middleton will be felt for years to come — not just in the systems and processes she helped build, but in the people she mentored along the way.

“Thank you for your years of service and for all you’ve done for me personally,” one coworker said. “You’ve always kept me on track.”

Know someone retiring after years of dedicated service? Create their personalized tribute story here.