Twelve retired Preschool teachers, who affectionately call themselves the “Out to Pasture” group, gathered at JA on Friday. They enjoyed a fun day of reminiscing about their time at JA and were excited about the many changes that had occurred since their retirement.
While on campus, they reconnected with former students and faculty members. After a greeting by Head of School Palmer Kennedy in the Administration Building, retired teachers hopped on the JA bus for a ride to the Preschool, where they saw the modifications to the building and classrooms and learned about the new K2 program.
During a catered lunch in the Performing Arts Center, the group watched a video commemorating the school’s 65th Anniversary this year. Some visiting teachers began their work at JA more than 50 years ago! One recalled a time before JA had a gym, when P.E. was taught outside on little mats.
The group attended an afternoon pep rally in the Raider Dome where they wore their spirit stickers and cheered for the Raiders. Students who had been taught by these teachers were asked to stand during the pep rally and almost half of the student body stood up. Former teacher Marsha Revere led the JA fight song! The retired teachers’ enthusiasm while on campus proved: Once a Raider, always a Raider!
