CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION

The City Commission joins the citizens of the

City of Battle Creek in recognizing and acknowledging

Joe Zuk
on the occasion of his retirement.
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Joe Zuk is retiring from his career in education after more than 39 years of service with the
Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools. His affiliation with Catholic education began in 1953 when
he entered first grade at St. Joseph Elementary School. He graduated from St. Philip High School
in 1965 and attended the seminary from 1965 to 1968. Mr. Zuk’s 56-year association with
Catholic schools was interrupted only briefly. He obtained his English degree and teaching
certificate from Western Michigan University in 1970, but prior to graduating, he performed his
student teaching at St. Philip. Sister Remy recognized young Joe Zuk’s talent, professorial
promise and disciplined approach to education, making him a part of the St. Philip High School
faculty in 1970. During the ensuing years he taught and enhanced the lives of almost 2000 young
men and women.

Mr. Zuk is known for the development and teaching of rigorous and challenging English
courses. Alumni frequently express gratitude to Mr. Zuk for his classes, noting how well he
prepared them for college English courses. Students also appreciate his sense of humor and
ability to bring “life” to literature that, in the hands of others, may seem dry and difficult to
understand.

In addition to teaching English for 39 years, Mr. Zuk was the Assistant Volleyball Coach helping
Coach Guerra with several state championship teams, and he served as a Senior Class Advisor
and Quiz Bowl Coach.

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This Certificate is awarded to Joe Zuk in honor of his outstanding
39-year teaching career. The City of Battle Creek extends sincere best
wishes as he travels the golden road of retirement.

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Presented by

Mayor Mark A. Behnke

June 3, 2009