Unforgettable moments from a long career were celebrated Dr. Kathleen “Kat” Gordon during her last board meeting earlier this month. Dr. Gordon retired after 20 years of service to the School Board of Orange County. But not only did Gordon serve on the board for 20 years, she also served an additional 25 years with Orange County Public Schools as a librarian and counselor.
According to OCPS, she has been a matriarch of public education, civil rights, and an absolute champion for children. At the November 10th School Board meeting, Gordon received recognition acknowledgments with video tributes from Mayor Jerry Demings, District 5 Jones High School and special gifts and memorabilia from Oak Ridge High School.
Click here to watch the reading of the proclamation and tributes to Kat Gordon.
Dr. Gordon did not want personal gifts for her retirement. True to character, she wanted to leave a lasting gift for District 5 to continue the work. The Foundation for Orange County Public Schools recently established the District 5 Student Activities Fund in Dr. Gordon’s honor. It will help ensure that District 5 students can fully participate in sports, arts and other activities without significant financial concerns. The fund for District 5 has raised over $5,000. It is made up entirely of contributions from OCPS employees and friends who share Dr. Gordon’s belief in the success of every student.
“Dr. Kathleen ‘Kat’ Gordon has never minced words when it comes to her students,” the Foundation says online. “Since her first teaching position and throughout her 51-year career, she has believed in their potential, promoted their interests, and celebrated their successes with energy and vigor.”
