I have had the wonderful opportunity to be at Orchard three different times through the decades. I was first hired in 1981 by Gordon Thompson, and I taught third grade for three years. Kathy Rayburn then asked me to work in Learning Support. Through my years in Learning Support, I had the opportunity to work with incredibly bright and out-of-the-box thinkers in first through eighth grades. I will always be grateful for all of the wonderful students and families who I had the privilege to work with and to know through my years at Orchard. They all have left indelible marks on my heart. I will always remember each and every one of them!

 

I am also so very grateful that I had the opportunity to work with phenomenal educators and fabulous administrators. I’d especially like to thank Gordon Thompson, Kathy Rayburn, Shirley Steele, and Charlie Clark for their incredible wisdom. They truly took Orchard to new heights because of their visions. I’d also like to thank Hal Schwartz for his fun, upbeat, kind, and compassionate leadership style and for giving me the opportunity to return to Orchard in 2019.

 

I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work with incredible teachers in Learning Support as well. I am ever so fortunate that I got to work with Julie Richter, Linda Appel, Jamie Jackson, and Beth Larner through the decades. They are not only incredible educators but also lifelong friends.

 

Truly, it is all of the wonderful teachers at Orchard, and there are so many, and the students who make Orchard the magical place that it is. I will miss my students, parents, and my dear colleagues.

 

With great fondness and appreciation,

Kristi


Congratulations to The Orchard School's 2022-2023 retirees! Even though we miss seeing you around campus, We're excited for your future endeavors and please know you're always welcome back. #owlsforever