Courtesy photo
SANTA MARIA — On the day Emma Zubia-Perales marked 40 years of service to SMHS, she was right where she wanted to be, in the classroom.
Zubia-Perales was hired as a SMJUHSD Special Ed Instructional Assistant on November 19, 1979.
On Tuesday, members of the administration, co-workers and friends gathered inside her classroom for a brief celebration with two cakes.
“This is such an honor,’’ said Zubia-Perales. “I have the best job in the world.’’
Acting Principal Steve Campbell praised the educator’s commitment to the Saint community.
“She is so sweet,’’ Campbell said. “I would hire her for another 40 years if I could.’’
Zubia-Perales graduated from the school in 1974 as well as two of her children.