A trustee on the Greater Essex County District School Board has been honoured.
Tom Kilpatrick has been given a gold pin with a diamond star for his 40 years of service.
The 75-year-old has decided to call it a career after his current term ends.
"It's been an enjoyable experience doing this but I've seen a lot of things that have happened and our educational system I think is a lot better now than it was," says Kilpatrick.
He says a lot has changed over the years but feels the changes are for the better.
"When I first started as a trustee, we were in charge of the taxes, we did all the labour negotiations, all the hiring," says Kilpatrick. "We had almost 100% control over our budget and our programs and a lot of that is changed now."
Kilpatrick says career highlights include keeping up with the changes in society and special education programs the board now offers.
As for any regrets, he says one issue he wish was addressed during his tenure was the elimination of the four educational systems.
Kilpatrick feels money is being wasted and the money saved would provide better programs for students.