Grandkids key in retiring WP teachers’ futures

It’s been a long time since Sherri Schoenholz and Teresa Hayes have not looked forward to returning to their classrooms in the fall.
Schoenholz spent 45 years in education and Hayes 22. The pair finished their careers at Wauneta-Palisade Schools and chose to retire at the end of the 2020-2021 school year.
Hayes said it’s the first time since she was 12 years old that she doesn’t have a job.
She said she looks forward to being spontaneous and more available to her children, four grandchildren and friends.
Hayes subbed for three years before teaching full-time for 19 years. At WP, Hayes taught various science and agricultural classes, as well as serving as FFA advisor.
Schoenholz taught special education at WP for 25 years. She started her career teaching music and elementary education before moving to SPED.
She said its rewarding to see students return 10 years later with successful lives and say thank-you.
While she had mentors who encouraged and helped her along the way, she said it was special to be recognized by a fellow teacher as helping them become a better educator.
Schoenholz echoed Hayes’ sentiment that she’s ready to spend more time with her kids and grandkids and she’ll have no problem filling her time.
“It’s been a hard decision. I love my kids,” Schoenholz said, adding that the WP school board and administration have been wonderful to work with.