Diane Karpowitz could hold the tears for only one second.

A loud cheer and “thank you Mrs. Karp-o-witz” rang from the Lawrence Public Library’s auditorium Friday evening, as about 150 students, parents and preschool teachers greeted the recently retired director of the First Presbyterian Preschool, a ministry of First Presbyterian Church, 2415 Clinton Parkway.

“You didn’t know I could be speechless,” Karpowitz said as she wiped away her tears with a tissue.

The party was a surprise, as Karpowitz’s husband, Dennis, had told her he needed to look at books for Christmas present ideas.

It was an opportunity to say goodbye to the woman who taught at the school since 1989 and served the past six years as director.

“Thank you for your dedication to preschool. The staff members – we all love you dearly,” Betsy Kelly said.

Karpowitz was awarded a Mayor’s Excellence in Education Award in 2005 by then-Mayor Mike Rundle.

She spent most of the party receiving hugs from students and parents. Students also gave her an autographed quilt and a scrapbook.

Diane Karpowitz, right, receives hugs from current and former students of First Presbyterian Preschool during her surprise party at the Lawrence Public Library. Friday's party honored Karpowitz, who is retiring as the preschool's director after working there since 1989. She received a scrapbook created by the students and a quilt they signed during the party.

“She was a very good mentor with a lot of parenting suggestions. She had a lot of good advice,” said Alyson Matkin, a parent who has known Karpowitz for three years.

Matkin said more than 100 students attend the preschool. Jennifer Allen, the interim preschool director, was unable to attend because of a scheduling conflict, Matkin said.

Karpowitz and the church’s governing body, or session, each sent letters dated Nov. 15 to church members and preschool parents that announced her retirement.

In the church’s letter it said Karpowitz had led the program well. It also outlined a review of financial records that included past scholarships and Christmas bonuses that did not meet IRS requirements and would be taxable. The letter also said a review found no evidence of misappropriation of funds.

“That is the church’s comment. The letter explains the church’s position,” said James Rumsey, the church’s president of the board of trustees.

Karpowitz wrote she believed she had been unfairly asked to take responsibility for the financial issues and that a church-appointed preschool board oversaw granting of scholarships.