Beloved Spanish Teacher is Retiring

It was an emotional goodbye to Spanish teacher Judith Horowitz last week when school board members accepted her retirement. She has taught in the district for 10 years.

Middle School Principal Charles Seipp had nothing but praise for Horowitz. "We are truly losing a master teacher who has excelled at her craft on a daily basis," he said. He explained that Horowitz has constant energy and makes the classroom experience so enjoyable that students often don't realize they're learning.

Director of Personnel and Supervisor of World Languages Scott Cascone said Horowitz "looks out for the whole child" and is concerned for each student that enters her classroom.

Horowitz addressed members of the board and the public, saying that being a teacher was her calling. "I would do it for nothing if Carvel didn't charge money," she joked.

But she said time was calling her and she decided she needed to retire. "It's time to spend more time with my best friend and husband," Horowitz said, getting choked up. "And I'm torn and he knows it. I love him and I love your children."

Horowitz got a standing ovation from the meeting attendees, including district personnel, board members, parents and students.

School board members relayed their experiences with Horowitz, with some getting emotional. Joseph Blundo said Horowitz was an incredible person in addition to being a fantastic teacher, finding whatever method works for each individual child. "My one regret is that my youngest will never experience her," Blundo said.

Board of Education President Carol Mountain said Horowitz made a big impression on the students, even if they weren't in her class. Mountain said her son, who is in his early 20s, said, "She was so cool," when he heard the news.

Superintendent Geoffrey Zoeller said he was very sad to see Horowitz go. "If it was in my power to compel you to stay I would. But sadly I wouldn't do that to you or to your husband," he said. "Congratulations. We're so proud of you."