The list of staff retiring this year sadly expands with the imminent retirement of the high school secretary, Mrs. Jan Brendlinger.

Mrs. Brendlinger has a colorful history with the school having worked in the district for 32 years. She has been the high school secretary for 11 years, she was the middle school secretary, has worked at the attendance office, and she has even worked at an elementary school!

In the high school building alone, she’s worked through “six or seven” principals. In her days at the elementary school, she worked under principal Dr. Camp.

“[I’m going to miss] the camaraderie of the staff. I’m also going to miss seeing the students’ progress. You see them come in as seventh or eighth graders, then you see them leave as twelfth graders,” Brendlinger commented about what she would miss the most.

But what will she miss the least? The answer came quick: calling substitutes.

“Calling substitutes . . . is the thing I will miss the absolute least. I will be so happy to not have to look at my phone first thing in the morning to see which teacher has called off,” Mrs. Brendlinger confessed with relief at the thought of no more early-morning calls.

In terms of the evolution of the high school over the years she has worked here, Mrs. Brendlinger considers social media the biggest change. Seen as a double-edged sword, she promoted its helpfulness in communication among students to other students or their parents. However, on the flip side, she remarked that social media also can be used by those who want to mistreat others.

To add to the now-depressing note, tears were shed by the staff in reaction to Mrs. Brendlinger’s retirement.

“Jan’s knowledge, humor and friendship will be greatly missed when she retires.

Her efficiency and confidence ensured the main office always ran smoothly. ‘Cats on three,’” attendance secretary Mrs. Erin Kilpatrick sadly remarked at the thought of Brendlinger’s retirement.

Mrs. Terri Belanger, the guidance office secretary, was especially moved at the thought of Mrs. Brendlinger’s retirement.

“I’m going to miss everything about her. She’s been my work buddy for the last 11 years; I’m really going to miss her. I’m going to miss working with her, her friendship at work, her strength and leadership here. She really carries the building, and I always looked to her for guidance,” Mrs. Belanger commented, heartfelt.

On a happier note, Mrs. Brendlinger plans on pursuing the dream we all have once she retires: buying a house in Florida.

“I’m hoping to move to Florida part-time. My husband and I plan on buying a place where we can live there in the winter and come back here in the summer,” Mrs. Brendlinger cheerfully shared.

Mrs. Brendlinger, you will be greatly missed by the faculty, staff, and students! Have fun in Florida!