Below are remarks delivered at the February Board of Education Business Meeting at Mexico Elementary on Feb. 27, 2025 by Board President James Emery.
It has been said that, “the greatest gift you can give someone is your time, it is thinking of others that makes the world a better place.” After hearing my remarks this evening, I am sure you will agree that Sherry Ladd, Teacher Aide at the Mexico Middle School, is one who has definitely given her time and is always thinking of others, which has made, in our case, the MACS District a better place.
Sherry grew up in the south side of Syracuse.
When Sherry was in seventh grade, her father had the opportunity to purchase some land on Sundown Road in the Town of Palermo. The family moved, and Sherry would complete her education at MACS graduating in 1990.
I asked Sherry if she had any difficulty adjusting to a different school district. She said there was one incident that tarnished her memory of her years at MACS. It happened in gym class during a section on cross country skiing. Apparently, Sherry fell down and could not get up, so she sat there with her ski tips in the air. It reminded of a scene from a Charlie Brown cartoon. Sadly, no one gave her a helping hand. Other than that, she enjoyed her years at MACS.
When Sherry was 15, she met her future husband, John at a wedding reception. After a lengthy courtship, they married in 1991. They would be blessed with children, Erica, Samantha, and Evan. Husband John’s family is well known locally for its outstanding work ethic. Apparently this has been passed on to Erica, who works at the Oswego Hospital, Samantha, who works at Crouse Hospital, and Evan, who works for Pepsi.
In 1994, Sherry interviewed for a sub position with our District. Her interviewer, Food Service Director Morgan Wisner told Sherry that she may or may not get called to work. As it turned out, Sherry was called the next day and has worked every day since!
Sherry considers herself a “jack of all trades” and a team player for the District, who tries to fit in whatever role she fills. She started in food service at the Mexico Middle School. While there, she would also work as a substitute cleaner for Operations and Maintenance during school breaks and during the summer. Next, Sherry went to Mexico Elementary as a monitor because it had insurance benefits and more hours. At Mexico Elementary, she would fill in at the main office, help with bus duties, make copies and laminate, and help teachers with their class projects. She left Mexico Elementary to assume custodial duties at the Middle and High School. In 2014, she went to the Middle School as a Teacher’s Aide for Special Ed. with Mrs. Loomis. Sherry has remained at the Middle School and is now part of the 8:1:1 classroom.
As for examples of Sherry thinking of others, here are some instances provided by her colleagues.
Mexico Middle School Teacher Assistant, Emily McCarty writes, I just wanted to take a moment to recognize Sherry Ladd for the incredible person and colleague she is. Sherry is not only an exceptional baker - her treats are always a highlight of any gathering - but she also brings that same level of care and dedication to everything she does. She is an overachiever in the best way, always going above and beyond to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and with the highest quality. Her organizational skills are unmatched, making even the most hectic projects feel manageable.
Beyond her work ethic, what truly sets Sherry apart is her kind and positive disposition. She brings warmth and encouragement to those around her, creating an uplifting environment that makes working with her an absolute pleasure. Whether she’s lending a helping hand, offering words of support, or simply brightening the day with her presence, Sherry embodies what it means to be a great teammate. I just wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation for all that she does.”
Mexico Middle School band director, MACS Fine Arts Coordinator and coach, Kevin Upcraft writes, “We are incredibly fortunate to have Sherry as a part of our community. In every role she takes on - whether as a band mom, an aide, a MJROTC parent, a cleaner, or a cookie baker - Sherry consistently puts in 150% effort. Her dedication and passion have touched the lives of countless students through band, MJROTC, and her work as an aide in our schools.
Sherry’s cookies are absolutely wonderful, but it’s her unwavering support for our special education students that truly stands out. Most recently, Sherry has been a tremendous support for one of our special education students on the swim team. She is there every day, giving her all for that student and supporting the rest of the team. Whether it’s helping direct them at an away meet, holding their goggles while they put their caps on, or having cookies on the bus after the meet, Sherry’s caring and professional support is amazing.
Thank you Sherry for your incredible dedication and the positive impact you have on our students and community. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are deeply grateful for everything you do.”
In addition to her MACS duties, Sherry is part of RESPITE Services. This service allows Sherry to work with a student, Mollie after school, in the evening and on weekends, so that Mollie can participate in a variety of activities. The activities include band, chorus, plays, swimming, and bowling. In fact, Sherry is with Mollie so much that she is considered part of Mollie’s family.
Nominator and former Proud to be MACS recipient, Sue Hewitt writes, “She is fantastic with her student, going to all of her sporting events and coaching Mollie and encouraging her. Sherry is a kind thoughtful person, and I have seen her coach Mollie and motivate her to go above and beyond.”
Others have noticed Sherry’s efforts with Mollie by remarking that Sherry always has a smile on her face, no matter if she is marching down the street in 90 degree weather, getting splashed on in the pool, or running to catch up, she is smiling and encouraging. Because of Sherry’s willingness to support Mollie, no matter the activity, Mollie is able to create lasting memories.
As expected, when asked what her favorite memory is, Sherry said it is working with and supporting Mollie. Sherry worked with Mollie from second to sixth grade. Mollie has since moved on to the high school where she is a sophomore.
As for the favorite part of her job, Sherry enjoys watching the students develop and enjoys seeing what the students do with their lives.
Sue Hewitt concludes her nomination by simply stating, “Sherry is an asset to MACS.”
And so Sherry for being a “jack of all trades’, a team player, an overachiever who goes above and beyond, for having a strong work ethic, for having a kind and positive disposition, for being someone who gives 150%, for being an unwavering supporter, for being a creator of lasting memories, for being an exceptional baker, for being a great asset to MACS, but, most importantly, for giving the greatest gift, your time to make MACS a better place, it is with great joy that we, the Board, recognize you as our Proud to be MACS recipient for February 2025.
