A flurry of well-advertised year-end activities recognizing students filled the calendars of parents, grandparents and the community as a whole recently. Once the dust settled, a vital and often underappreciated group gathered quietly among themselves for the school district staff appreciation supper, honoring and celebrating the work of educators and staff, while also recognizing community members who make a difference during the school year. Look to upcoming print and e-editions of the True Dakotan for an in-depth look at those pictured on this page.