Page 26 - Demo

The Next Chapter
Retirement opens a new realm of opportunities for faculty and staff
June is a month for celebration at FIS. Grade 12 students cross the stage at graduation, younger students prepare to take the next step in their
learning journey, and the community as a whole reflects on the successes of the year. But this June, there’s further cause to celebrate as a group of long-time faculty and staff transition into a new phase of their lives: retirement.
This year’s retiring class encompasses an impressive 133 combined years at the school. They have taught across disciplines, supported multiple divisions or have served in the school’s administration and during their tenure, have all witnessed the transformation of FIS. “Obviously, the school has grown enormously during my time here,” said Judith Martin, who teaches English in the Upper School. “But it still has that sense of community, I’m glad to say.”
That community feel is what retirees will miss most as they say goodbye to a place that has provided so many rich experiences. “I’ve formed some wonderful friends at FIS, many of whom have become like part of my family,” says Anita Sandoval-Vail, who teaches French in the Upper School.
Along with personal connections, retirees will also miss the work. “I will miss the day-to-day challenge of being at work, the excitement of working with young people, and the vague possibility of having a good influence on them,” says Upper School German teacher, Erdmute Koplin.
But for all, the future holds a promise of endless possibility – and leaving with a sense of satisfaction. Upper School French teacher, Cheryl Zeigler, sums it up perfectly: “I have been extremely happy and fulfilled in my profession as a teacher and wouldn’t have changed it for anything in the world.”
As their new chapter begins, our retirees share some of their plans for the future. We wish them all the best!
Although my retirement doesn’t officially commence for another year, I’ll look forward to volunteering, sewing and quilting, which is my favorite hobby. But I’ll especially enjoy the extra time with my grandchildren.
- Anita Waldner
I plan to travel and visit people I’ve met during my time here who now live all over the place. I’ll visit my daughter in England too, where she’s teaching. Her first year in the profession is my last. There’s something rather appropriate about that, I think.
- Judith Martin
I’ll be going back to New Mexico to enjoy lots of sunshine and green chile – and of course, my children and grandchildren!
- Anita Sandoval-Vail
I will miss the daily challenge, but am optimistic that I will get used to that. - Detlev Siebrecht
My husband and I will travel to Spain, Britain and Greece. I will go to the gym more often and use my bicycle regularly. Later, I want to learn Italian and take painting classes. I am also looking forward to having more time for my friends and my family. It will be a busy life!
- Erdmute Koplin
I will spend time with my family in France and Michigan, biking, hiking and enjoying the plants and flowers that my degree in horticulture has given me a love for. I also plan to stay involved with the Operation Smile group here at FIS.
- Cheryl Zeigler
24 FIS World June 2018