Alternative Education site renamed after 50-plus year fixture Judy Eppler

Sometimes people come into our lives and leave a mark that stays forever.

Over the past several months Mariposa County Unified School District has been renaming some of its facilities in honor of a select few who have dedicated so much of their lives to the school district and children in the community.

With more than 50 years with the district, Judy Eppler has more than earned the honor of being recognized for her service.

On June 16, district staff, family and community members gathered to honor Eppler as the Alternative Education school site was dedicated as the Judy Eppler Alternative Education Center.

Trace DeSandres shared his experience knowing Eppler and how she has touched his life since he first met her during his high school years.

“I met Judy Eppler for the first time in 1973,” DeSandres said.

“Our friendship continued into my college years and I was proud to call her a friend.”

After college DeSandres later returned to Mariposa to teach and Eppler was there.

When DeSandres retired in 2020, Eppler was still there.

“Judy wrote me a letter and I still have that letter to this day,” he said.

Lori Vegely also shared how Eppler was the reason she began working in the school district years ago.

After not getting the first position she applied for, Eppler called Vegely while she was actually on her honeymoon to tell her of another job opportunity.

“She figured out a way and she took a chance on me and created a position,” Vegely said.

“She took a chance on me and I’m still here.”

The rest is history.

Vegely explained how Eppler had been a close friend to her mother and they had all remained close through the years.

Wayne Forsythe expressed his appreciation for Eppler.

“She’s touched thousands of lives,” he said.

“It’s about time she’s being recognized.”

Sarah Matlock thanked Eppler.

“She was my high school counselor and she’s still here over 50 years later. It’s incredible.”

Eppler shared her gratitude for the people and experiences she’s had during her time with MCUSD.

“I was told to surround myself with good people and get out of the way,” she said.

“I’ve been surrounded by good superintendents, good staff and great kids. Thank you.”

Two other sites have been renamed in the district so far to honor those who have meant so much to so many.

Rose Varney was recently honored as a building on the Woodland Elementary campus was dedicated as the Rose Varney Mulipurpose Room.

The new building on the lower campus at MCHS has been renamed LaNotte-Hayes Hall for the Humanities.

The dedication of the LaNotte-Hayes Hall for the Humanities has not been finalized but will likely take place in the upcoming months.