Albion Teachers Association honors 12 retiring colleagues

‘I’m going to miss everything – football games, homecoming, prom, the kids, the talks, the crying on my shoulder, everything’

Photo by Claire Squicciarini: Pictured from left include Della Morales, Stephanie Simpson, Dawn Squicciarini, Mark Vanacore, Karen Spierdowis and Tim Archer. Other teachers and aides who are retiring include Carmenrose Brittan, Duncan Hughes, Nancy Lowery, Sue Ann McGraffick, Joyce Monacelli, and Toni Plummer.

By Claire Squicciarini, correspondent

LYNDONVILLE – The Albion Teachers Association honored 12 retiring teachers during a dinner at White Birch Golf Course.

The retirees include Tim Archer, Carmenrose Brittan, Duncan Hughes, Nancy Lowery, Sue Ann McGraffick, Joyce Monacelli, Della Morales, Dawn Squicciarini, Karen Spierdowis, Toni Plummer, Stephanie Simpson and Mark Vanacore.

“It’s just an end of one season leading into another,” retiring high school English teacher Karen Spierdowis said at the celebration on June 22.

While enjoying a lovely evening, the teachers were able to reminisce on the memories and friendships they made along the way.

“I’m going to miss everything – football games, homecoming, prom, the kids, the talks, the crying on my shoulder, everything,” said retiring high school librarian Della Morales says.

Each of the teacher’s careers were honored with speeches about their impact on students and colleagues. Each retiree received personalized gifts from the association.

“School friends become your second family,” said retiring special ed teacher Dawn Squicciarini.

The night was full of great memories with great friends.

“I am excited but sad,” retiring special ed teacher Stephanie Simpson said.

The Teachers Association thanked the teachers for their many years of services and wished them the best as they start their new chapter of their lives.