Trio of LGISD Retirees Reflect As New Chapter Looms
It’s common knowledge that people who work in education are more than staff members. They are mentors, guides, and friends, and no other school exemplifies this more than the hardworking men and women at La Grange ISD, especially those who are retiring this year. Rebecca Gerecke, Kristine Naiser, and Sally Ferley are all examples of staff members who did more than just their jobs but were committed to excellence.
Rebecca Gerecke began her career in coaching and teaching after receiving herAssociate’s Degree at Blinn College and transferring to Sam Houston University to receive her Bachelors in teaching. Her teaching and coaching career began at St. Michael Catholic school in Weimar, where she taught science and physical education, and coached middle school volleyball, basketball, track, and softball for eight years before coming to La Grange for the next thirty-two. In La Grange, she coached volleyball, basketball, and track. After decades of dedicated service, Mrs. Gerecke plans on traveling, spending time with family, sewing quilts, and continuing to share her love of education beyond retirement by contributing to further educating students and mentoring teachers as a substitute teacher.
Kristine Naiser
Kristine Naiser taught English 2, reading, and language arts. She’s taught at the La Grange elementary school, middle school, and high school, and is known across the district for her unwavering commitment to education, shown by how she conducted herself as a teacher and coached U.I.L. spelling. Mrs. Naiser became a teacher because both of her parents worked in education, and because of this began working with young people early on. A few of the things she loved about teaching in La Grange were the creative, helpful, and contagious energy her students had. Her plans for the future are to continue to show her love for La Grange by finding more ways to help the young community of La Grange.
Sally Ferley
Salley Ferley worked in the high school in-school suspension room for eighteen years and as a professional aide. Her career as an aide in La Grange began after moving here from League City. She worked as an aide in the high school, where she worked for eighteen years. Her retirement plans include going on trips with her son, seeing her family in Ohio, and spending lots of quality time with her golden doodle, Lucy. When asked what she loves about La Grange, she said that she loves its “small town feel,” close-knit community, and the high school’s “family feel”.
After decades of dedicated service, La Grange ISD thanks these revered teachers for years of commitment and their pivotal roles as educators in our schools. With their departure, they leave behind a legacy of mentorship and empowerment. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Gerecke, Mrs. Naiser, and Mrs. Ferley’s impact on the school community is immeasurable.