Staff writer
USD 408 had a reception May 26 for six retiring teachers. While they are looking forward to the freedom of retirement, some of the teachers plan to stay involved in school activities.
Jan Davis worked 23 years in USD 408 schools, teaching art in kindergarten through seventh grade.
Mary Griffith spent 26 years teaching various language arts, drama, and debate classes.
Anita Hancock has taught music at all levels in her 21 years in the district. Most recently she taught elementary music.
Marj Sandberg taught in Marion for 35 years. Most recently she taught fifth- and sixth-grade math.
Doug Vogel spent 22 years in Marion as a guidance counselor and special education teacher.
Wanda L. Williams has 26 years of experience in Marion. She began by teaching kindergarten, but most recently was a librarian.
Griffith said many of her best memories involve students’ accomplishments. In particular, she cited debate duos Ashley DeForest and James Meier and Sarah and Rachel Davidson placing third in state.
“That was a real highlight,” she said.
She also was happy to have taught all three of her own children in school.
“It was really good to stay in touch with what they were doing academically,” Griffith said.
She wants to put her retirement to good use.
“I plan to spend more time with my family — children and grandchildren,” she said.
Griffith said she would continue involvement with Marion High School theater productions.
Vogel won’t be leaving school behind entirely, either. He wants to continue coaching scholars bowl and perhaps substitute teaching. He looks forward to the flexibility retirement will give his schedule.
“I’d like to do a little traveling with the wife,” he said.
Many of his best memories of teaching involve the people he encountered.
“I’ll remember the friendships, and not just the people I’ve taught with, but some of the students I’ve taught,” Vogel said.