Angels Camp, CA…On December 18, 2023, the Bret Harte Union High School District Board honored two people with Proclamations of Appreciation and a third for 22 years of service. The first honoree was Ashley DaSilva, a Bret Harte High School bus driver, who on November 22, 2023, pulled her bus to the side of the road to assist two Mark Twain students who were being chased by an aggressive dog on their way to their bus stop. The students boarded the bus and were safely delivered to their school. According to an email from Eric Griffin, Superintendent of the Mark Twain Union Elementary School District, her quick action ensured the students’ safety.

The next Proclamation of Appreciation went to River Christensen, a P G &E employee. On November 21, 2023, Christensen pulled his truck over to the side of the road when he noticed an impaired driver had entered the Bret Harte High School Horseshoe parking lot. The driver had smashed into six parked vehicles and when the opportunity arose Christensen reached into the car and removed the keys. His quick action stopped further damage and ensured the safety of others.

Also at the meeting, Shannan Kawcak was honored for her 22 years of service with the district. Shannan is retiring as the Director of Operations at the end of December and will be greatly missed. Over the years she ensured that the campus was always the shining star our students, staff, and community appreciate.
###