Â鶹ӰÒô

The dynamic duo who taught hundreds of prekindergarteners in two languages for the past 15 years is retiring, and they were celebrated Friday morning by families, colleagues, former students and three therapy dogs!

Ana Banda-Wemple and Norma Holmberg have been in the same Dual Language Program prekindergarten classroom since 2008. In addition to well-wishing colleagues and pre-K families, Banda-Wemple and Holmberg were surprised by a visit of some 10 former students who will graduate from Â鶹ӰÒô High School next weekend.

In addition, therapy dogs Bruno Mars, Snickers and Chewbacca – frequent visitors to the Banda-Wemple’s and Holmberg’s classroom this year – and their human Happy Scherer stopped by the party. Latin band Mundo Nuevo provided background music.

Banda-Wemple retires after 30 years teaching in the City School District of Â鶹ӰÒô and Holmberg retires after 15½ years.

Grandmothering is next on the agenda for both: Banda-Wemple’s first grandchild was born last month, and Holmberg’s first grandchild is due next week.

Best wishes to these fabulous educators!