After 42 years of service, Beaver Area High School guidance counselor Mrs. Patti Gradisek is retiring.

“I really loved all of the students I got to meet along the way. My colleagues who I’ve worked with over the years, and still keep in touch with, and all of the relationships I’ve been able to build through this job have really made me happy,” said Mrs. Gradisek.

Mrs. Gradisek began at Beaver Area High School 42 years ago as a learning support teacher. However, she doesn’t plan to work after retirement, but she plans to volunteer at places such as the Humane Society.

“I’ll really miss all of the students and colleagues I’ve become close with. When you have the same job for so many years, it’s practically a second home. However, I don’t think I’ll miss when I talk to students who aren’t succeeding,” explained Mrs. Gradisek.

When asked if she had any advice for her replacement, Mrs. Gradisek kept it short and simple.

“Get along with your colleagues and the students, and enjoy your time here,” said Mrs. Gradisek.

Mr. Brandon Ambrose is a new guidance counselor at Beaver Area High School, and he’s gotten very close to Mrs. Gradisek.

“I’ll really miss our little conversations every day. She’s not really a small talker; she doesn’t like to talk about weather or politics or things like that. She wants to have in-depth, personal conversations, and they’re some of the best conversations I’ve ever had with a colleague,” said Mr. Ambrose, who joined the guidance staff in January after teaching history in the middle school.

Mrs. Terri Belanger is the guidance office secretary at Beaver Area High School and has been friends with Mrs. Gradisek for a very long time.

“Mrs. Gradisek is outgoing, caring; she’s very contentious about her job and helping the students, and she has been great to work with in the guidance office. I’ll miss her laugh and just having her right next to me to talk to everyday,” confessed Mrs. Belanger.

Mr. Mark Pilarski, a Beaver Area High School art teacher who is also retiring this year, has also gotten very close with Mrs. Gradisek over the years.

“Mrs. Gradisek is a sweet, caring, and loving person. She always thinks of others, and she loves to listen to others,” explained Mr. Pilarski.

Mrs. Gradisek, we can’t thank you enough for your many years of hard work at Beaver Area High School. We’ll all miss you, and we wish you the best of luck in your future.