Employee Highlight: Gladys A. Diebert
My name is Gladys A. Diebert and I currently serve the students, parents, staff, and community of Madera Unified in the capacity of Senior Administrative Assistant to Superintendent Lile and to the seven trustees of the Governing Board. It is a privilege and an honor to be featured in our newspaper. My career in the district started almost 30 years ago. My first job was as a Teacher’s Aide at Furman High School, followed by a bilingual clerk position, cafeteria clerk, and a school administrative assistant for fifteen years at Alpha Elementary until I moved back to the district office. My advancement was made possible by the staff who believed in me and in my qualifications for the positions that interested me, and for my perseverance to always test how far I can reach. You see, I was born in Lima, Peru and came to this country when I was 21 years old. With $17 dollars in my pocket and a bag filled with dreams, I was determined to conquer the challenges this adventure may bring. Like any other immigrant, I faced bumps, loneliness, cultural assimilation challenges, and the need to find a job, but thanks to the support of my family and of the people who trusted and inspired me to always challenge myself, I was able to assimilate into the local culture to overcome my circumstances. I am truly grateful to work at Madera Unified. My son attended Alpha Elementary, Thomas Jefferson and Madera High School and many teachers inspired him to pursue his dreams. He graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston with a music performance degree and recently obtained his Masters in Fine Art from California Arts Institute in Valencia, California. Both with a full scholarship. I should mention a few of these fine teachers: Mrs. Irene Davis, Mrs. Kelley, Mrs. Brewer, Mr. Beckett, Mrs. Latimer and others who escape my mind. They believed in my son and supported him at every stage of his life. I am truly thankful to them. Sometimes a smile, a simple act of kindness or a listening ear can make a difference in the life of students and families. They certainly made a difference in my life and in the life of my son. I truly Believe in Madera Unified and in our vision! 
