The end of a chapter

Six Creston educators said goodbye to school and hello to retirement this year.

The Creston Community School District bid farewell to four staff members at their May 30 retirement ceremony.

Sue Dake has worn a couple hats during her Creston years, starting as a paraprofessional but going on to spend the last 25 years as the high school’s office administrative assistant.

Dake recommends educators make the most of each day and remember to smile. Her school favorite memory involves the daily passing moments with students through the office.

“[I love] being able to watch the students on their high school journey and share in the laughter and joy with them,” Dake said. “It was fun to hear the ‘excuses’ they would come up with for being late.

Dake plans to use her retirement to spend more time with family, play the piano and travel.

Wendy Hartsock began her teaching career in 1991 after graduating from UNI. She soon moved to Creston, where she spent the next 30 years as a middle school social studies and careers/financial literacy teacher.

Hartsock’s teaching highlights include watching former students excel in the real world and having colleagues who were once former students. She advises teachers remember the impact they have on students.

“When in doubt of how important you are, just remember that teaching is the one profession that helps cultivate and create all other professions,” Hartsock said. “You are making a difference one day at a time.”

Dan Little, custodian, and Becky Harris, paraprofessional, also retired from the school district in May.

St. Malachy Catholic School saw one retirement this year, but she’s not going far. Ann Levine spent the last 47 years as the school’s first grade teacher and will now be “moving down the hall” to serve as the school’s secretary.

Levine’s favorite part of teaching has been helping her kids learn to read, but she knows it can be difficult.

“Be patient. Show your students that you care by listening to them. First graders thrive on routine, but know that everyday will be different,” Levine said. “Work hard to be flexible and supportive of your students and colleagues. But most of all, know that what you do is important and love it!”

After 34 years of service for Green Hills AEA, Lora Hight is retiring from her position as a mental health school social worker. Hight’s favorite memory stems from tragedy.

“A favorite memory is moving into our new office after the tornado destroyed the previous office. We were all back together,” Hight said.

Following retirement, Hight plans to travel and spend more time with family in northern Minnesota, where her dad has a lake home.

Mayflower Heritage Christian School reported no retirements this year.