On Sept. 15, students and staff at Jones Elementary dedicated a Buddy Bench to honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Mary DePalma, who spent more than three decades as an educator in the Utica City School District.
Mrs. DePalma worked at several schools throughout the district before finishing her teaching career at Jones Elementary, where she inspired countless students and formed lasting friendships with her colleagues.
Mrs. DePalma retired from teaching in June 2024. In February 2026, she died following a courageous fight with cancer. The Buddy Bench serves as a meaningful tribute to her dedication to students and the relationships she built throughout her years in the classroom.
The bench also reflects the caring and welcoming school community Mrs. DePalma helped foster. It provides students with a special place to connect with others, make new friends and remind one another that no one is alone.
Jones Elementary is grateful to honor Mrs. Mary DePalma’s years of service with a lasting reminder of the kindness, connection and care she brought to the school community.
