The end of the school year marks a farewell to not only the seniors, but also four exceptional staff members who have permanently shaped the Ritenour community.
Through their combined dedication, these teachers have transformed students’ lives while developing strong programs and establishing enduring memories.
Art teacher David Appelbaum has spent 25 years at Ritenour High School, with a total of 33 years of teaching experience overall. He is known for his passion for art and his love of the outdoors.
He plans to use those passions as he moves into retirement.
“I’m going to work more with my bees and do more with my hives,” Appelbaum said.
Appelbaum also looks forward to traveling and working on restoring old houses, but he says that there are definitely things about teaching that he will think about.
“I’ll miss the classroom and especially RCO, where I worked with students outside of the usual school setting,” Appelbaum said.
Appelbaum’s students are also sad to see him go, as he has made such a big impact on their lives.
“Mr. Appelbaum made my high school experience memorable because he has always been so helpful ever since I took ceramics 1 in my freshman year,” senior Corinne Spearman said. “I’m so glad I’m a senior because then I don’t have to deal with him being gone next year. I hope Mr. Applebottom jeans has a good life with his bees!”
Another classroom teacher who will retire this year is Lisa Hampton, who has worked for 25 years in the Special School District. She has worn many hats during her time at Ritenour, including being the varsity cheer coach and her work with Special Olympics. She said one thing she will miss the most is the spirit of the school.
“I loved ‘Dress like a Student Day’ and the dodge ball games,” Hampton said. “It was also great training the class 2010 powderpuff cheerleaders, those boys were awesome.”
Hampton plans to work at Southwest Airlines, but said she might return as a substitute teacher if needed.
In addition to retiring classroom teachers, there are two retiring staff members who helped Ritenour students in other capacities.
Dr. Christina Thompson dedicated her last years of work after spending 18 years as the Ritenour High School librarian and teaching English for 11 years at other schools. She cherishes her time with her “library family kiddos” and her enjoyable interactions with staff members during PD (professional development) days and conferences.
“Those were some of the best times,” Dr. Thompson said.
Students are disappointed to see her leave, as she made the library a popular destination.
“She made the library a fun place to hang out or just chill,” junior Tyler Dinsmore said.
Thompson does not intend to substitute full-time, but she may assist in district libraries.
She had some advice for younger teachers in the district, saying they should remember to maintain a light attitude toward themselves because they need to be prepared to laugh and adapt to situations.
“The work is challenging, yet it can lead to rewarding outcomes,” Thompson said.
The final retiring staff member is counselor Shauna Cunningham. She has worked at the high school for 9 years, and before that was a school counselor in St. Louis Public Schools for 14 years.
Like Hampton, Cunningham said that the memories from Spirit Days will live with her forever because of the friendly competition and camaraderie.
“I have made lifelong friends while working at Ritenour, and I am so grateful to work with so many supportive, dedicated professionals,” Cunningham said.
Cunningham also has fond memories of her work with the students.
“My favorite student moments include graduation and awards nights. I am proud of every student who chooses to show up and give their best, even when life is difficult,” Cunningham said. “Empowering students to see themselves as valued human beings is one of the best parts of my job.”
Cunningham will be moving out of state. She hopes to mix a combination of self-care and work in her retirement.
“My retirement plans include hiking, reading, yoga, writing, live music, and home renovations. I may also work part-time as a mental health therapist,” Cunningham said.
Echoing Thompson’s thoughts, she has a strong message for any students who are hoping to go into the field of education in the future.
“Education is hard work, but you have the opportunity to shape the future. We need dedicated, compassionate teachers. If you want to teach, there is a place for you.”
