For Ms. Denise Gulling, Southeast Polk has never just been a place to work. It’s home.

She grew up here. She attended Southeast Polk schools. She graduated from Southeast Polk.

Then, in 1976, she came back—this time as a teacher.

Fifty years later, Gulling is still part of the district, continuing to help shape the students and educators who come through its doors.

Her story represents something special about Southeast Polk: the people who grow up here often find a way to give back, and their impact can stretch across generations.

At this year’s staff welcome-back event, colleagues gathered to recognize Gulling’s 50 years of service. As her story was shared, the room rose to its feet in a standing ovation. It was a fitting moment for someone whose career has been woven into the fabric of Southeast Polk for half a century.

1976 → 2026.

Fifty years. One district. Generations of Rams. And now, year 51.