Renton Schools Superintendent Dr. Mary Alice Heuschel and her cabinet team delivered more than 5,000 homemade cookies to staff throughout the district as part an annual staff appreciation celebration.

Each year Heuschel and her team spend several nights making cookies and treats to deliver to staff during the holidays. Heuschel started the tradition to show her gratitude to staff upon taking over as superintendent three years ago.

“We make the cookies in Renton High School’s kitchen. We leave them to cool on racks in the back and return each night to make more and decorate,” said spokesperson Randy Matheson in an e-mail.