Speech

Last Friday night, our school held its annual retirement party. There were six of us retiring, and we were all expected to give a speech.

I usually don't like to get up in front of a group with a prepared speech, but I did prepare a few thoughts. Several people have commented that they enjoyed my remarks, so I am going to share them here:

I have been planning this speech in my head for nearly four years—since I turned in my letter of intent to retire. Oh dear, what to say?! Do I share funny stories about the students? Do I explain where all the skeletons are hidden?

Well, I’m not going to do either. Most of you know my funny stories. (And I just got a new one this week!) And I’m not going to talk about the skeletons with administrators here.

So, instead, I am going to look back a little and look forward a little. Looking back on my years at Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South, I see 6098 days that I thoroughly enjoyed—and the seven that I have left to savor. It is amazing to look back and see the technology changes that we have embraced. Though I still miss fluid duplicator copies!) My greatest regret about leaving is that I won’t be here to see what is going on in my classroom in 30 more years!

Thirty-three years ago, when I interviewed with Donna Mikovich, one of the questions she asked was “How long do you see yourself working here?” Wow. I am just getting out of grad school, I have no idea how to respond! So after a few seconds, I said, “Of course, I don’t have a crystal ball, but I don’t see myself wanting to make a change for at least five years!”

That must have been the right answer, because, now after so many years, I am standing up here, looking out a group of family, colleagues, and dear friends. It is an awesome feeling to see such an illustrious group! Looking back on my career at Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South, I feel truly blessed. Blessed to work with such a fabulous, hard working, devoted faculty. Blessed to be able to teach thousands of really wonderful students and know that I have had an impact on many of them. Blessed to be able to get to know so many families, community members, and business people over the years.

I hesitate to mention names, because I know I would neglect to thank someone in the administration, faculty and staff who have made coming to Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South such a pleasure. But I would but I would be remiss if I did not thank Donna and Bill Trescott for having the confidence in me, when I am not sure that I would have. I would like to thank Sandy Pine, Ann Hittle and Mike Ivancich, my other department chairs who gave me the resources and the freedom to teach to the best of my ability. I would like to thank my partner Mike, who for 26 years, has listened to me ramble on about kids and events and problems at school. Of course, I can’t forget Judy, Elaine, Sharon, Phyllis, the other Phyllis, Karen, and Kristen whose prep period conversations helped me to survive. And I can’t forget the 8250 students who came to my room to learn about the business world.

All year, people have been asking what I plan to do. I am pleased to report that I do not know what I am going to do. But I do know what I am going to ask of those who will still be here—work hard for the students—they don’t realize it but they need what we have to offer; do something for the Association--we wouldn’t be where we are without it; and don’t let the new administrators get away with anything!

Now if you want to hear one of the funny stories, catch me later, and buy me a drink!