The Spartans Speak
Nat and Ward retire in JuneFriday, March 16, 2012 By Alan Anocibar
Mr. Natalizio and Mrs. Ward will retire from Pembroke Academy at the end of the school year. Both veteran teachers, headmaster Mr. Reardon said it will be difficult to replace them. After 31 years as social studies teacher, Mr. Natalizio said he’s ready to retire. It won’t, however, be without some reservations. “I will miss the profession of educating people, the captured audience of students and my peers and their supportive ways,” said Mr. Natalizio. Mr. Reardon said that Mr. Natalizio “does his job day in and day out,” adding that Mr. Natalizio “does it well.” “Every time I go into his classroom he is engaging the students,” Mr. Reardon said. “His classes always focus on making kids think about issues.” Mr. Natalizio also coached JV football and basketball, earning respect from his players as well. “He’s is a fun kind of guy,” said sophomore Robbie Johnson, a member of the JV football team. “As a football coach, his presence makes everyone happier.” Mrs. Ward, on the other hand, has taught horticulture at Pembroke Academy for 20 years. After retirement, she said she will miss the students and her interaction with them. Mr. Reardon also had high accolades for Mrs. Ward, adding it will be difficult to find someone with her skills in horticulture. “She has given the school an invaluable resource in regard to the greenhouse,” said Mr. Reardon. “She makes classes rigorous and helps students to understand how plants work and grow.” Sean Scavotto, a junior student in Mrs. Ward’s horticulture class, describes her as a nice person. “I am going to miss having her here,” said Scavotto. “Even though this is my first year with her, I feel like I’ve known her since I was a freshman.” As for retirement plans, she said she wants to find part-time work in the plant business and maybe work at Gunstock Mountain. |