News : Time to 'graduate:' Hurst to retire from VS after 40+ years as custodian

Melvin Hurst is often seen with Pack 47 Scouts at community events, including Relay for Life.

Melvin Hurst led a tour of the then-new VS High School for the members of the Class of 1983.

Melvin serves as announcer for the annual Pine Wood Derby.

Melvin Hurst, in the 1980 yearbook.

“After forty-plus years as an employee of the district and thirteen years as a student of the district I have decided that now would be a good time to “graduate,” says Melvin Hurst, Jr.

Hurst is one of several Vinton-Shellsburg employees who have requested and received approval for the early retirement program this year.

“I have enjoyed working with the various staff members and students that have walked the halls of the buildings that I have worked at and will miss seeing both on a daily basis,” Hurst wrote in his letter to district administrators.

Hurst has worked in many buildings, and for the past several years has been custodian at the high school.

Known by many area families as the Pack 47 Troop Leader, Hurst is also edging toward retirement from Scouting. He mentioned his plans during the recent Blue and Gold Banquet, and encouraged anyone interested in becoming a pack leader to contact him about the training the organization offers to new leaders.

The VS School Board approved early retirement requests for Hurst, Myra Kearns as a high school special education teacher, transportation director Keith McGowan, Tilford computer assistant Diane Hesson, and Peg Stephens from the food service department at V-S Middle School.