Staff Spotlight: A Stockbridge classic, Elizabeth Cyr is retiring

by Amy Haggerty

News of Elizabeth Cyr’s impending retirement in January 2022 has been met with conflicting emotions—great sadness by many in the district but also considerable happiness for Cyr.

After 23 years teaching in the Stockbridge Community School District, Cyr’s much recognized hard work has resulted in many great achievements—on her part as well as on the part of those she has taught and worked with.

Cyr began her teaching career at Stockbridge High School in 1999. Throughout that time she has taught Journalism, English 11, and advanced placement courses. She is also the long-time faculty adviser for the “Uncaged” newspaper and the “Panther Yearbook” student staffs.

As if that didn’t keep her busy enough, she has also served as the National Honor Society advisor and English department chair, not to mention her many years of active participation on the school improvement team.

When asked what she will miss most about teaching, her response is classic “Cyr”:

“I found the secret to a happy life: helping young people unlock their potential. Nothing made me happier than helping students unleash their ideas and amplify their voices through strong journalism and cutting- edge graphic design.” Cyr adds, “I get to see so many of them continuing to do great works as adults. There is no greater joy.”

A teacher with her breadth and reach can’t leave without offering some valuable parting words for current and future students in the Stockbridge School District.

“Go have an extraordinary life. Wherever you go, whatever you do, don’t settle. When you fall, pick yourself up. Be your own loudest cheerleader. Believe in yourself. I certainly do.”

Cyr, along with her husband Jerry and her mother Judith Naki, will be moving to Colorado to be near the Cyr’s 26-year-old son Liam. They are also looking forward to the many outdoor activities that area has to offer.

With great fondness, so many in the district send along happy wishes for a wonderful retirement and many years of good health to Elizabeth Cyr and her family!

Amy Haggerty retired from Stockbridge Community Schools after teaching for 33 years in the Stockbridge district. She moved to the community 24 years ago with her husband and daughter. She enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Elizabeth Cyr has enjoyed a long career devoted to her students and is now gearing up for a well-deserved retirement in January 2022. Photo from Facebook.

Long-time SHS teacher and newspaper and yearbook adviser Elizabeth Cyr celebrating Halloween at the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association Fall Conference. Photo provided by Elizabeth Cyr.