Principal Joe McGann has awarded the first annual “Honorary Service Award” to Jeff Blugrind.

“When I started at Chaparral last year, I heard about this guy Jeff Blugrind and I didn't know what to expect. I heard that he was very involved,” said Principal McGann.“Jeff's truly going to be missed next year when he and his daughter are down at the middle school.”

While the PTA regularly recognizes its volunteers, this was the first time that a Chaparral Principal has given a volunteer award directly.

Blugrind's volunteerism included being the parking lot director every day for the last five years, rain or shine, Master of Ceremonies for the school talent show, organizing music, entertainment and the USC marching band for former principal Dr. Rafferty's last day, and providing music and entertainment for Jog-a-Thons, pizza and movie nights, PTA events and more.

“I was completely surprised by the presentation,” said Blugrind. “... and I'm really going to miss helping out at the school.”