Sheridan Community Schools honors 2026 retirees

Submitted by Sheridan Community Schools

On Monday, May 11, Sheridan Community Schools (SCS) recognized four individuals for their dedicated service to the district. Gretchen Policka, Brenda Ransom, Jim Kinsey, and Jeff Guenther have all dedicated decades to Sheridan students. Their dedication not only to the success of students but also to the well-being of everyone at SCS will be forever missed.

Gretchen Policka

Policka has dedicated 17 years to SCS, and her story truly exemplifies what makes such a special place. Mrs. Policka is deeply appreciative of the students, families, and staff who have been a part of her journey. She has always been passionate about science and has been able to instill that passion into her students through her genuine care and impact. She has inspired curiosity and a love of learning. SCS is thankful for her dedication, passion, and commitment to education for the past 17 years. She will definitely leave a legacy, but everyone at SCS wishes her the best of luck on her next adventures.

Brenda Ransom

Mrs. Ransom has committed her teaching career to SCS for over 25 years. Beginning in 1999, she has taught a range of grades, from middle to high school English, to yearbook, to finally finishing her career as the Media Center Specialist. She doesn’t just stay within her library walls, as she is always willing to help out wherever and whenever needed. She brings smiles and laughter to those around her and is an exceptional team player with a great attitude. Her selflessness and wit have always been admired and will be greatly missed.

Jim Kinsey

Mr. Kinsey began his career at Sheridan High School in 2006. In his time at SHS, he has helped implement a variety of new coursework through AP classes and an engineering pathway. His caring and adventurous attitude, along with his wit, thoughtfulness, good nature, and positivity, will be missed. His dedication to the forefront of SCS – the students – has always been appreciated and will be greatly missed. SCS extends a hearty congratulations and wishes Kinsey the best of luck.

Jeff Guenther

Mr. Guenther has been an educator for 22.5 years, most of which have been in SCS. In addition to being a teacher in the middle school, he also coached multiple sports, including basketball, where he won a sectional championship during the 2014-15 season. For the last three years of his career, he led the Northern Hamilton County Academy (NHCA), which is SHS’s alternative education program. Guenther worked with a variety of high school students, assisting them to earn credits and/or make up credits to graduate on time. The success he had at the NHCA was absolutely incredible, and SCS will definitely miss his dedication.