2 minute read
New School Year Begins with Heartfelt Goodbyes and Warm Welcomes
As a new year begins at St. Francis Solanus School, Principal Lori Shepard wants to take an opportunity to say a heartfelt “goodbye” to three teachers who have devoted their careers to education — many of those years were spent at our school.
Mrs. Carla Slough has been in education for 36 years and has also had the opportunity to teach her own grandchildren at St. Francis Solanus. She taught fourth grade and recently received the Golden Apple Award presented by WGEM Television.
Advertisement
“Mrs. Slough is a real team player, and heads up various committees at the school to help provide our students with enriching experiences,” Ms. Shepard says.
Mrs. Barb Peters has been a preschool aide for 26 years since the program began at St. Francis Solanus. Over the years, Mrs. Peters’ great sense of humor and sensitive personality have made her a great fit for this work. continued on back cover
Mrs. Carla Slough has been in education for 36 years.
“Mrs. Peters is dedicated to her job, her students, and the school,” Ms. Shepard says. “She is sensitive and wants only the best for the children.”
Ms. Shepard acknowledges that the 2020-2021 school year was stressful, but our students, faculty, and staff rose to the challenges.
“Our students have been amazing all year and have lived up to every expectation that we have had for them,” Ms. Shepard says. “Our parents have been supportive and we couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with. Our teachers have worked so hard to provide the best education possible both to in-person students and their distance learners at the same time.”
The commitment to Christ at St. Francis Solanus has made all the difference to students.
“We are united in Christ,” she says. “For that, I am forever thankful. We will begin next year with a renewed spirit.”
Mrs. Michelle Herman moves from the role of intervention specialist to second-grade teacher. “She cares about her students with such passion and a big heart,” Ms. Shepard says.
Mrs. Lydia Spillman will be teaching seventh and eighth-grade religion. She recently graduated with a theology degree from Quincy University.
“She will be able to enrich the students’ faith lives and help to form them into strong, young members of the Catholic Church,” Ms. Shepard says.
Mrs. Kelly Wheeler will be teaching fourth grade. She previously served on the school board for a short time. Ms. Shepard calls her a “tremendous” addition to the team.
And Ms. Shepard looks forward to beginning her ninth year as Principal.
“Faith has always been at the center of my career path,” she says. “I feel that the Lord has led me to serve in a variety of areas, and I have been blessed for each and every opportunity.”
