Schools

A 'Blessed' Career

Barbara Guy said she is grateful for her 30-plus years in education, holds West Vincent Elementary School close to her heart and feels comfortable with her decision to retire.

 

Barbara Guy's parents had important roles in Owen J. Roberts schools.

She graduated from the district.

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So did her kids.

And after 33 years as a district employee, Guy, an Owen J. Roberts resident and principal of West Vincent Elementary School, will retire.

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Guy started her career as an elementary math specialist in the district in 1973. She later taught a math program for gifted and talented students in New Jersey.

She returned to Owen J. Roberts in 1987 to teach academically talented students. 

She worked closely with the district’s administration  throughout her career.

In 2000, Guy became assistant principal of Owen J. Roberts Middle School. 

Beginning in 2004, she served for four years as principal of French Creek Elementary School.

But it was in 2008 that Guy said she reached an important milestone in her career. That year, she became principal of the new West Vincent Elementary School. 

“There were enormous challenges,” Guy said of a tight construction deadline for the district’s first new building in many years. “There was redistricting.”

She led her team of teachers under the belief that small challenges would result in big joys.

“The professionals here are extraordinary,” she said. “I’ve had so many highlights.” 

Guy said she’s seen many changes in schools including greater security after the 1999 Columbine High School massacre, the growth of technology and budget cuts.

“It’s an exciting and challenging time to be in education,” she said.

Now, it’s time to spend more time with her family, she said.

“I knew the time was right,” she said of her decision to retire. 

But Guy will always have a strong connection to West Vincent Elementary and the district, she said. 

“I’m part of this community . . . My soul is with Owen J. Roberts,” Guy said. “It’s a wonderful school district with wonderful and dedicated staff members . . . We’ve been blessed here.”


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