In this episode of "Discovering Grayslake," the host warmly converses with Lauriei Lambie, a retiring teacher from Woodview School, celebrating her 32-year career in education, with 23 years dedicated to Grayslake. Lori shares her journey from California to Grayslake, reflecting on her teaching experiences and the deep connections she formed with students and colleagues. They discuss the strong community spirit in Grayslake, memorable classroom moments, and Lori's plans for retirement, including travel and volunteering. This episode highlights Lori's impactful career and the cherished community bonds that make Grayslake special.
Celebrating a Legacy: Laurie Lambie's Journey and Retirement Reflections
In this heartwarming episode of "Discovering Grayslake," the host sits down with Laurie Lambie, a beloved teacher from Woodview School, who is retiring after an impressive 32-year career in education, with 23 of those years dedicated to the Grayslake community. This episode is a tribute to Laurie's dedication, the relationships she has built, and the strong sense of community that defines Grayslake.
Laurie's Teaching Journey: From California to Grayslake
Laurie's journey into teaching began in California, where she spent the first eight years of her career. Her move to Grayslake in 2002 was influenced by her sister's marriage, which brought her closer to family. Laurie quickly found a position at Woodview School, where she has spent the majority of her career.
Key Takeaways:
Transition to Grayslake**: Laurie's move to Grayslake was a significant change from her life in California. She found a welcoming community and a supportive environment at Woodview School.
Family Connections**: Laurie's family, including her two children, has grown up in Grayslake, further deepening her connection to the community.
Teaching Experience: Building Relationships and Creating Memories
Throughout her career, Laurie primarily taught second grade but also had the unique experience of looping with her students from first to second grade for eight years. This allowed her to build deeper relationships with her students and witness their growth over two years.
Memorable Moments:
First Day of School**: Laurie fondly recalls the excitement and nervousness of the first day of school each year.
Classroom Celebrations**: She organized various events such as dodgeball nights and lip sync contests, creating lasting memories for her students.
Looping with Students**: Looping allowed Laurie to develop stronger bonds with her students, making them feel like family.
Community Connection: The Heart of Grayslake
Laurie emphasizes the strong sense of community in Grayslake, which she appreciates compared to her previous life in a larger city. She loves the local parades and the friendly interactions she has with families in the area.
Community Highlights:
Local Events**: Laurie enjoys participating in community events, such as the Memorial Day parade, which she describes as a highlight of community spirit.
Supportive Environment**: Woodview School feels like a family, with long-standing staff members who genuinely enjoy working together.
Retirement Reflections: Bittersweet Goodbyes and Future Plans
As Laurie prepares for retirement, she reflects on what she will miss the most—her colleagues and the daily interactions with her students. She shares that her students have been asking her why she is retiring if she loves them so much, which leads to a discussion about the bittersweet nature of leaving a job she is passionate about.
Future Aspirations:
Travel**: Laurie and her husband are planning a two-week vacation to Portugal, marking the beginning of their retirement adventures.
Volunteering**: Laurie expresses interest in volunteering with animals, a passion she hopes to explore further.
Reading**: She looks forward to spending more time reading and enjoying her favorite books.
Legacy and Impact: A Teacher's Lasting Influence
The episode concludes with Laurie reflecting on her legacy as a teacher and the impact she has had on her students. She shares a touching story about a former student who visited her to present a retirement gift, illustrating the lasting connections she has made over the years.
Final Thoughts:
Gratitude**: Laurie expresses gratitude for the kindness and support she has received throughout her career.
Positive Relationships**: She emphasizes the importance of building positive relationships with students, which can have a lasting impact on their lives.
Conclusion: Celebrating Laurie's Contributions
This episode of "Discovering Grayslake" not only celebrates Laurie's retirement but also serves as a tribute to the teaching profession and the vital role educators play in shaping the lives of their students and communities. Laurie's passion for teaching and her commitment to her students will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who have had the privilege of knowing her.
Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the podcast for more stories that highlight the unique individuals and experiences within Grayslake, fostering a deeper understanding and connection among community members. Celebrate the educators in your life and appreciate the connections you have with your neighbors, reinforcing the importance of community spirit.
