If you've walked down the halls of Coleman Elementary Schools over the last five years, you've likely crossed paths with Linda. While she wasn't technically on the school district's payroll (serving us through Clare-Gladwin RESD), she has been and always will be a vital part of the Comet family!
After an inspiring 12-year career as a literacy coach (spending the last five dedicated exclusively to Coleman Elementary School), Linda is officially moving on and stepping into a well-deserved retirement . . . and we are going to miss her terribly!
When Linda first arrived, she brought a passion for reading and a knack for finding the root of any problem. She was instrumental in helping our district shift its approach to reading and literacy, helping us adopt a new curriculum that has since skyrocketed student engagement and achievement. Thanks to Linda and the hard work of our teachers and staff, our teachers have felt more empowered than ever to collect classroom data and use it to make essential changes to their instruction methods.
But if you ask Linda what she loved most, it was the people.
"I will miss being in classrooms," Linda shared. "I love to go in and see teachers doing their thing and hearing the hilarious responses from kids. That's where the magic happens."
She credits much of her success to the incredible "growth-mindset" staff at Coleman, and the outstanding shared leadership and administrative support from administrators like Mrs. Araway and Mrs. McCormack.
If there's one thing Linda is known for, it's her dedicated, helpful nature, her love for data, and her famous catchphrase: "Let's noodle on it." Her colleagues showered her with some love as she prepares for her next adventure:
Liberty Rocheleau: "She is one of the reasons I am in the role I am in, and I'm very thankful for that. Thank you for all of your hard work and everything you have done to support all of us!"
Alison Young: "Linda has been an amazing asset to our school, always willing to jump in and make even the biggest tasks feel manageable. I will absolutely miss her help and her bright smile."
Tara Whittington: "She was so knowledgeable, kind, and fun to work with. She was always ready for a great brainstorming session or just a good conversation."
Linda is looking forward to spending more time with family and discovering new passions. Her immediate next step? Working as a Pilates studio receptionist - mostly, she jokes, for the free classes!
Linda left us with these parting words:
"It has been an honor to end my career as an educator at Coleman Community Schools. Everyone goes into education hoping that they can make an impact - and I feel that I have. I've never officially been a staff member, but I've always been welcomed in as part of the family."
Linda, thank you for everything, and congratulations on your retirement!