After 36 years dedicating her life to teaching and loving her students Jan Shepard has decided to retire. When asked why she was retiring she replied, “I knew I would know when the time was right to retire and I just knew this year was it. The time I spent teaching was wonderful.”

What are you going to miss most about teaching?

The seven and eight year olds. I just love my second grade students. I learn right along with them everyday. I will miss the teachable moments. For example during a lesson I used the idiom, ‘packed like sardines.’ I had to explain what it meant. So Hannah (one of my students) went to the store with her Mom and found a can of sardines. She brought it to school with her and everyone was amazed when we opened the can. Amazed at how they looked and how they smelled, they now understood what I meant when I said ‘packed like sardines.’ It was a teachable moment. I will really miss the teachable moments.

What inspired you to teach for 36 years?

The kids, the teachers. I have made best friends and old friends and new friends. When I come to work I am with family. Coming to school everyday is a blessing, it is the most comfy, happy place. Everyday you get to be with caring, loving and supportive friends.

What will you do after you retire?

I will continue to travel overseas with Sharan Farmer and friends. I love working in my yard so I will continue to do that. I will now be free to visit my grandchildren and my mom is now in Trinity Mission and I will be able to bring her to our home for visits. I love photography and I will be taking a lot of pictures.

What are you going to miss the most about Stafford Elementary?

The people here, my Stafford family.

What would you like to say about your teaching career at Stafford Elementary?

God had a hand in this. He put me in 2nd grade. He knew that is where I was supposed to be. In fact, I have had students become parents and I have taught them in my class and some of their grandchildren. God knew that I belonged here.

What would you like to say to the students you have mentored over the years?

It is never too late to become what you always wanted to be, whether it is to be a better person, parent, friend or career choice. It is never too late to do what you always wanted to do or be what you always wanted to be.

Congratulations on your retirement Jan Shepard – you will be missed! Enjoy your retirement – you have earned it.