FOUR Orange High School teachers have closed the door on their teaching careers after spending most of their lives in the classroom.
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Technology and applied sciences teacher Grisela Deasey has chalked up 47 years in her career, with 37 years spent at Orange High School.
She is planning to continue her textile projects, spend time with her grandchildren and volunteer at the school.
Agriculture and science teacher Trevor Thompson is retiring after 25 years in Orange and 37 years as a teacher and will continue farming on his property.
“If I lasted another three years there would have been 100 years of teaching between my grandfather, father and myself,” Mr Thompson said.
Mrs Deasey and Mr Thompson were also former students of the school.
“I’m not excited, I don’t really want to go, it’s in my blood,” Mrs Deasey said.
English, history and learning support teacher Meredith Healey spent the last eight of her 38 years teaching in Orange and is looking forward to travelling, being a grandmother and enjoying life.
“I’ve loved every day of my teaching, but it’s time to move on,” she said.
The fourth teacher to retire is industrial arts teacher Glen Griffith.
The teachers said throughout their careers there had been many changes to teaching methods and technology, with transitions from chalk boards to white boards to smart boards and the increased use of computers and devices.
Mrs Healey said teacher training had increased and teaching had become more inclusive, with more focus on individuals, rather than a one-size-fits-all mentality.
“The kids are the same but their interests and the ability to engage with technology has made it easier,” she said.