Seventh-grade English teacher Lisa Rivard will retire at the end of this school year after a 21-year teaching career, including the last three years at Tyrone, where she has made a lasting impact on students and staff.

“I’ll miss her ability to help me see things in a different light. She’s very calming, and at times, she helps me calm down,” said middle school English teacher Gwen Miller.

One of Rivard’s former students, eighth grader Payton Wray, said he appreciated Rivard’s creativity when it came to assignments and projects.

“The book reports at the end of each marking period were really fun,” Wray said.

Before coming to Tyrone, Rivard taught at a school in Johnstown for 18 years.

Rivard said that she chose to become a teacher because she enjoys literature, reading, writing, and working with students.

Students and staff said that they will remember her for her positive spirit, creativity, and helpful demeanor.

While she is excited to retire, Rivard said she loves the atmosphere at Tyrone and will miss her coworkers and students.

“The school has lots of spirit, and the community is always there for one another,” Rivard said.

When asked about some of her favorite memories, Rivard mentioned her love for teaching The Outsiders and that one time a student did a backflip in her classroom.

Rivard plans to enjoy her retirement by vacationing and traveling.

She had one message for all the students she has taught over the years: “Take education seriously,” Rivard said.