Middle school paraprofessional Peggy Cox, who has been called a “school mom” or “school grandma” by many students and staff at TAMS, plans to retire at the end of December.

According to sixth-grade teacher Shelly Toto, Cox has made a positive impact on hundreds of students and staff members over the years.

“She has become a very special friend to me, and I will greatly miss working with her,” Toto said. “She has always gone above and beyond her job duties. I hope she never underestimates the difference she has made and the lives she has touched. She will be irreplaceable. I wish her a very blessed and restful retirement.”

Fellow middle school teacher Jenna Owens agrees, saying that Cox’s contributions go well beyond the academic help she gives her students.

“Mrs. Cox will be greatly missed,” Owens said,” She has been a school mom and school grandma to students and staff alike. I hope her retirement is filled with all of the things she enjoys, and relaxation.”

Cox said she has enjoyed working closely with students, helping them grow academically and socially.

Many current and past students appreciate her kindness and will miss seeing her at TAMS.

“Mrs. Cox always [helped me] get good grades,” current sixth-grade student Braxton Dengate said. “I am going to miss her when she leaves.”

TAHS freshman Shiloh Price was one of Cox’s students back in sixth grade, and she still remembers her fondly.

“I remember her being kind and always willing to help me. Mrs. Cox gave me at least ten books, and I still have all of them. She left me a note in one of them, and I still have that too,” Price said.

Cox said she will miss the students and the staff, especially Toto and the sixth-grade teachers and staff members.

“Mrs. Cox’s creativity and enthusiasm have made learning enjoyable for countless sixth graders,” said middle school teacher Randy Bilka,” I am grateful for the opportunity to work with her and wish her a happy and fulfilling retirement. She will be greatly missed.”

Cox said that she enjoyed working at Tyrone and thinks it is a great school to work in. She loved all the memories and friendships along the way, and will especially miss Mrs. Toto.

After she retires, Cox said that she “just plans to enjoy her free time.”