For over 20 years, Mary Britt has been one of the quiet forces behind Lyons Central School District's success. From payroll and benefits to grants, tax collection, workers' compensation, and countless responsibilities added over the years, Mary has been the dependable person behind the scenes, making sure everything ran smoothly.
Her career at Lyons Central School District began in an unexpected way. After spending a few years as a substitute teacher while raising her family, Mary was looking for a part-time opportunity when she learned about an opening for the district's Tax Collector. She applied, was hired, and after just one year transitioned into payroll, where her role naturally grew to include an ever-expanding list of responsibilities. What once started as a part-time job turned into a 20-year career and a legacy that will last long after she leaves.
Mary built a career defined by reliability, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Mary approached every task with the same philosophy: "Just work hard and do the best job you can. That's how I was raised," she said. "The work I did impacted people’s livelihoods. You have to realize that and take it seriously. It has to be just as important to you as it is to them."
That mindset earned Mary a reputation many aspire to, but few achieve. Lyons CSD’s Assistant Superintendent for Business, Mike Pangallo, often describes her career as a "perfect game," marked by exceptional accuracy, unwavering integrity, and an attention to detail that made her one of the district's most trusted employees.
Mary says the people were always the most rewarding part of the job. Throughout every challenge, Mary credits her team for making her career so fulfilling. "I've always worked with great people," she said. "Everyone has been supportive. I've had wonderful coworkers and great leadership. We always worked together to get it right."
The relationships she built extended well beyond the Business Office. As both an employee and the mother of three Lyons graduates, Mary experienced the district from multiple perspectives. Her family's connection to Lyons helped deepen her appreciation for the close-knit community that defines the district. "It's a great place to work," she said. “I've also seen the district's connection to the community grow stronger over the last several years, and that's so important in a small town like Lyons."
As she prepares for retirement, she certainly won't miss every payroll deadline or legislative update. Instead, she knows exactly what she's looking forward to most. "My grandchildren," she said with a big smile. "Spending time with my family and my kids."
Some careers are remembered for the moments that made headlines. Mary's will be remembered for something even greater: the thousands of moments that simply made Lyons better.
Congratulations, Mary, on “the perfect game” of a career. Thank you for decades of dedication, professionalism, and service to Lyons Central School District. Your legacy will continue to be felt for years to come, and you will be deeply missed.
