Retiree Beth Applebaum Says Goodbye To DHS After 26 Years

While today marks summer recess for Danvers Public Schools, it also notes the last day of a 26 year journey at Danvers High School for retiree Beth Applebaum. 

As an English and reading teacher for grades 9 through 12, Applebaum taught self-contained classes for special education students. The courses, she explained, went along with the English curriculum that the school follows, taught in a different way and at a different pace. 

Applebaum has gone to great lengths to teach her students in ways that would be most valuable for them. About 10 years ago she said she "begged and pleaded" to be trained in the Wilson Reading Program, a year-long initiative that included a practicum, over 60 hours with a student, and attending classes, all specialized to help Applebaum teach her students to read.

"Incredible" is the word Applebaum used to describe teaching her students to read. "Kids' whole manner and behavior changes when they're able to read," she said. "Imagine going all the way up to high school not being able to."

Applebaum said without hesitation that it's the students she'll miss most at Danvers High School. "You wouldn't believe some of the things that go on," she said. "Some things are hilarious and some things are unbelievably sad. Some of them are rough around the edges, but once you get past that, they're amazing people. I feel honored to have worked with them.

But, Applebaum isn't the only one who feels honored. Around her room notes from students read: "Mrs. Applebaum is the bestest teacher ever!"

Joanne  Myers, Applebaum's aid of over 15 years, said she'll be greatly missed. "Her compassion with these kids, she's just phenomenal," Myers said. "They'd always come to her if they had a problem or were upset. She goes above and beyond."

When Applebaum steps out of classroom A220 on the last day of school, she'll set forth on a new set of goals.  Applebaum plans to continue private tutoring, guiding tourists through the North End of Boston for culinary tours, and volunteering at the UMass Public Radio Station. Plus, she's starting a new adventure: becoming a botanical artist. 

"I haven't had one sad moment so far. I've had two retirement parties as well as the school's retirement party, and I think people are a little upset I don't seem sad, because they know how much I love it. It's something I've done for a long time that I love, but I love a lot of other things. I'm excited about it, not really sad."