The Southwestern Central School district has recently approved more retirements, which will see two more decades-long teachers leaving the school.

Junie Eimiller is the first of the two individuals who spoke during a recent Southwestern Central School Distrct Board of Education meeting. Eimiller, who is expected to officially begin retirement on Jan. 24, has been a long time English teacher with the school, having begun at the district in 1998 and serving there for nearly 23 years. Eimiller noted that, upon beginning a job at the district, she was only 27 with a son on the way. Eimiller stated that she would never have anticipated at that time how much the district would change her life. Superintendent Molly Moore made note of what an incredible loss this will be for the school. Moore stated that Eimiller has worked in both the middle and high school building during her career. Most recently, Eimiller has focused on the senior classes by assisting students in getting JCC English credits in addition to their high school English classes, according to Moore. Beyond just teaching, Moore noted that Eimiller is passionate about caring for students and creating a comforting environment, even going as far as to throw student parties for various events.

“It has been an honor to serve the students and community here. I am deeply grateful for the support and opportunities this district has provided me, the friendships I have built, and the many moments of growth I’ve been able to witness in my students,” said Eimiller. “Being part of their educational journeys–and being able to offer encouragement and care both inside and outside the classroom–has been the most rewarding part of my career. I am going to miss spending time with them and the energy they bring.”

The district will also be losing Dana Lovecchio, long time foreign language teacher of 24.5 years, on June 30. Moore stated that Lovecchio has been responsible for teaching all of the eighth graders that come through the district Spanish for many years now. Additionally, Lovecchio has also served as the advisor for both the Spanish Club and the Spectrum Club, said Moore. Morre also stated that Lovecchio has been incredibly involved in the district’s musical productions over the years, frequently serving as the prop director. With so much involvement in the district, stated that Lovecchio will be greatly missed by all at Southwestern.

“How fortunate for me that the position at SWCS, my alma mater, happened to open up at the time I was looking for a job,” said Lovecchio. It has been an incredible experience to be a part of the SWCS family. I am proud of the work we accomplish here and thankful to have been a part of it.”