After 74 years of classroom teaching, Ann Pugh and Dianne Chavers retired from teaching the third grade at Andalusia Primary School by the conclusion of the 2022-2023 school term.
Pugh completed her 38 years of teaching experience and taught the first, second and third grade. She taught for a year with Flatwoods elementary school in Tuscaloosa and for 15 seasons working at Church Street Elementary School before finishing 22 years teaching at AES. Chavers had 36 years of teaching in the third, second, and fifth grades. She also all of her career with an internship in East Three Notch Elementary School as well as AES.
“I have decided that I would retire in the coming year due to after 36 years it’s the right time. I have three grandsons, and am looking forward to spending more time together,” Chavers said. “I thought about it and I will be welcoming a third grandchild to August.” Pugh added.
Both teachers agreed that with their pupils were the main reason to their continued tenure as teachers.
“It was always about the children and watching them grow up in their education. I’ll be sad to see them not teaching and being with the faculty, and attempting to keep up with the latest technology,” Pugh said.
“The one thing I loved the most in my job was the hundreds of kids who have had an impact on my life. I have learned more by them than what they have learned from me. I’ll miss my children and the camaraderie with my coworkers. I’ll also miss being member of our Andalusia City School family.” Chavers stated.
Although the way that teachers teach has changed through the years, each felt that the most important aspect they needed to adjust to was the advancement of technology.
“There is a lot to talk about from my first year to my final year. Time for teaching, academic expectations and the use of technology are only some of the things,” Pugh said.
“So many things have changed in the system of education over the last 36 years due to the introduction of technology. State testing has become more challenging for both students and teachers,” Chavers said.
Chavers realized she wanted to be a teacher, and become a role model for young children as just a child.
“I believed that my teacher in third grade was a star. Since then I wanted to be as her. Children require positive role models and assistance from adults. I’ve always wanted to be an adult.” She said.
Pugh first realised that education was her passion while working the church’s VBS programme.
“I realized from working with Vacation Bible School when I was in 7th grade, that I enjoyed helping children as well as assisting them. I believed that was the reason why God placed me in this Earth,” she stated.
In terms of their retirement plans are concerned they’re planning to take a break and remain active.
“My daughter recently had her third grandchild, and I’m going to be helping the baby. I’m a gardener who loves to do yard work and that’s at the top of my list of priorities. Being at the beach, and time spent with my mom are also top priorities,” Chavers said. “In retirement, I’ll plan to take a break, assist at church, take trips with family members and spend time with my children,” Pugh added.
One of the subjects they lacked most throughout the years included math.
“I definitely enjoyed math. As a child, my dad always supported me in trigonometry and algebra. I was able to appreciate math and remember my dad every day,” Pugh said.
“I loved teaching math and reading. My most favorite part during the week was small group time. It was there that the magic took place,” Chavers stated.
They gave heartfelt advice to anyone who wants to go into the field of education.
“Take each day at one time. Every day isn’t a great one, however there’s a to be thankful for in each day. If you make a mistake it’s never too late to take it back to the drawing board. If you’re a novice teacher, you should find an instructor mentor and take lessons from them.” Chavers said.
“Love the students, but keep in mind that they require boundaries and you should have specific expectations. Teaching isn’t for the faint-hearted. It is exhausting every single day however watching your children grow and accomplish their goals is the reward.” Pugh said.
They expressed their appreciation for all who contributed to their long and successful careers.
“I have been fortunate to have worked with some of the most talented teachers. I learned a lot more from experienced teachers than I did during my college years. I’d like to highlight Mary Louise Jones, who was my mentor during the very first semester I taught in the third grade. Cathy Harry and Karen Scott have also had an enormous impact in my career as a teacher. There are many other that I could mention, but I would be remiss not to mention Beth Weed and my entire third-grade teachers team as the most incredible team of teachers I’ve worked with over the past 20 years that I was in the third grade. Thank for everyone on the ACS Board of Education for their unwavering support throughout the last 36 years. I also want to thank the Dr. Daniel Shakespeare, Mrs. Brenda Johnson, and everyone else in the administration for all your love and support during the last few great times of teaching.” Chavers said. “I thank all my coworkers and my administrators throughout the many years,” Pugh added.
Pugh has two children: Mitch (Kathleen) as well as Megan Pugh. Pugh currently has two grandsons: Luke and Graham with another grandchild due in August.
Chavers are married to their husband Mark who has been married for nearly 38 years. They are parents to Zack Chavers and Erin (Rob) Maddox and grandparents to Ryan, Rex, and Eli Maddox.
Teacher in third grade Beth Weed stated her two colleagues will be missed greatly.
“I don’t know what we’d be able to do with them. They have a wide range of skills between them. They have mentored and loved thousands of children within our region and are sure to leave a mark. Their impact on the community is priceless.” Weed said.
Brenda Johnson, who was principal at AES during the past couple of years, was grateful to Pugh and Chavers the dedication to education.
“We are extremely grateful for these teachers and their commitment to education. We are grateful for the unforgettable memories they’ve created with our students in Andalusia Primary School. It is said that Walt Disney once said, “It’s not the events of life that we will remember, but the memories. Mrs. Pugh and Mrs. Chavers throughout their time in the classroom have definitely provided unforgettable experiences for the students in Andalusia Primary School. We will miss them both deeply and wish you both a wonderful end of retirement.” Johnson said.
The article The final bell rings: Pugh, Chavers retire from teaching after 74 years appeared in The Andalusia Star-News.
