Look who’s retiring from Stockbridge Schools

by Amy Haggerty

Three teachers from Stockbridge Community Schools have retired as of the end of the 2021/2022 school year— Diane Brooks, Corey Pena, and Kristy Ward. Together, they have been teaching for a combined total of over 60 years. Replacing these three experienced educators will be a big challenge for the district.

Diane Brooks started her career teaching Earth Science to eighth graders. Science has been her passion and she loved teaching the subject. She looks forward to retiring and spending time with family and friends.

Corey Pena, Title One academic support lead teacher, began her career in 1998 and has post-retirement plans to continue working with struggling readers and writers through various tutoring programs. She’s also on board to return in the fall for several weeks to help at Smith Elementary. As for how she plans to spend her personal time, she is looking forward to spending more time with her daughter who is moving to the northern Illinois area from Seattle.

Kristy Ward, sixth grade math teacher, has taught many grade levels from fourth through seventh grades. Ward began her teaching career in 1999 and has taught for 23 years. She looks forward to retirement and spending time in her garden and enjoying some travel within the United States in a converted camper Ford Transit van.

All three of these teachers are going to be missed very much and can take with them the knowledge that their many years at Stockbridge Schools have been appreciated by students, parents, and staff.

In June, three teachers for Stockbridge Schools embarked on well-deserved retirements: Diane Brooks (left), Corey Pena (center), and Kristy Ward (right). Brooks photo provided by Stockbridge Schools. Pena and Ward photos by Amy Haggerty.