Kevin Marse, senior supervisor of administration since 2007 and a supervisor in the main school board office since 1988, is retiring after 38.50 years of service to the St. Tammany Parish School System.

Marse was recognized at Thursday’s school board meeting for his dedication, innovations and service to the children and parents of St. Tammany Schools.

Superintendent Gayle Sloan said Marse “had a distinguished and productive career.” She praised Marse for his accomplishments, including his role in the creation of Operation Jumpstart and his establishment of the school disciplinary and expulsion hearing system now used in which he served as the superintendent’s designee.

MARSE

Sloan said that the Operation Jumpstart system of discipline and assistance for students has been very successful, with most students having a successful transition in returning to the classroom. Sloan said that very few students have had to return to the alternative school.

She praised his fairness and consistency in the process and said that no matter what the outcome of expulsion hearings, parents commented that Marse had treated them with respect.

He was also responsible for many other programs throughout the system including drug free schools and the school nurse programs.

In his farewell speech, Marse said, “It has always been our mission to do what’s best for the kids.” He said that he knows his children received a great education, but he knows his grandchildren will receive an even better one. “I am proud to be a part of it,” he said.

Upon his official receipt of his retirement certificate and pin, he received a standing ovation from all present.