March 16, 2022

Cheney Public Schools is pleased to announce that Charlie Pyke was named Cheney Public Schools’ Classified Employee of the Year in a surprise announcement at the district transportation office on Wednesday, March 16, 2022.  

The award celebrates a classified staff member who has exhibited outstanding work performance and has contributed significantly to student or program success and to the betterment of the school district.

Charlie Pyke serves as a painter in the maintenance department, yet took on the role of a substitute bus driver and is known to step in to a variety of custodial and maintenance roles.

Mr. Pyke was nominated by Transportation Assistant Director Ellen Holland and the business office staff, who wrote the following upon their nomination: 

“Charlie’s willingness to do anything and everything that is needed to support our district and our students on many different levels is above and beyond. There is no request or job that needs to be done that Charlie isn’t willing to do.”

Transportation Assistant Director Ellen Holland said Mr. Pyke is known for his positive and happy attitude, and that any department is lucky to have his help.   

“Charlie does whatever is asked of him. He drives a school bus most mornings, fills in as a janitor, or delivers the district mail. Charlie’s ‘regular’ job is in the maintenance department as the painter. Charlie is always ready when needed. He is competent at whatever he does. As a bus driver he does an amazing job. He is great with the kids and is always calm and collected.”

Congratulations to Mr. Pyke. The district is fortunate that he has chosen to share his dedication and expertise in support of the children and staff of Cheney Public Schools.