After 25 years of service, tributes have been paid to the “wonderful” Rita DiCarlo ahead of her retirement this July.
Beginning her career in the school office at Robert Bruce School in 1998, Rita retires as office manager at Kempston Academy after dedicating a quarter of a century to the schools of Kempston.
“During Covid, Rita personally delivered food parcels to families in need and made sure meal vouchers, laptops and anything else needed was provided for our students,” said her colleague, Debbie Hawking.
“She continues helping families throughout the year in any way she can.
“Rita is a true character and one of a kind, she is a friend to everyone and her kindness knows no bounds, she is always happy, bubbly and slightly bonkers (as I often tell her) but always there for everyone if they need a shoulder to cry on or some advice.”
Alongside her work at Kempston Academy, Rita also volunteers for the charity Country Days and was invited to attend the Royal Carols: Together at Christmas in Westminster Abbey in December 2022 in recognition of her hard work and dedication to the charity.
She was also instrumental in securing a £10,000 grant from the National Lottery for the charity so countless children can benefit from experiencing the great outdoors.
“All in all Rita is one of a kind and certainly deserves recognition for her selfless service to the people in Kempston for so many years,” said Debbie.
Karen Batemen, head teacher at Kempston Academy, said: “Rita is so much more than an office manager; her warmth, positivity and loyalty reach every visitor, member of staff and student.
“She is such a big part of our school community and beyond and her generosity and kindness will be so missed.”
Rita’s Kempston Academy colleagues described her as an inspirational role model who is “simply irreplaceable”.
“We would like to thank her from the bottom of our hearts for being the best colleague, mentor, confidant and friend.”
