Joyce Schipper has announced her retirement after six years as principal of Flowery School.
“Joyce is an exemplary educational leader and we appreciate all that she has done for Flowery School and the dual immersion programs,” said Pam Martens, school district superintendent. “It is the district’s great misfortune to be losing her wonderful service. But, at the same time, we are pleased the she can move forward and enjoy the next phase of her life.”
According to Justina Montano, dual immersion coordinator at the school, a meeting with parents has already taken place and the job has been posted on the Sonoma Valley Unified School District site and EdJoin.org, listing characteristics that are essential for the position.
“When Joyce joined us in 2004, the dual immersion program was in full swing and she had a lot to do to get up to speed,” said Montano. “She’s worked really hard to grow the program and get complete support and backing from the district. For that, we will always be grateful.”
Montano also said that the new principal will step in at an enviable time. “Dual immersion is in a different place today as opposed to when Joyce started,” said Montano. “We’re always tweaking and refining the program but other than that, we’re set up for a smooth transition.” Montano is hopeful that Schipper will continue to help with grant writing as well as add to the strength of the program on an ad hoc basis.
Schipper said that the decision to retire is entirely her own and has nothing to do with recent state cuts to education. “I’ve worked in education for the past 33 years,” she said, “and am finally ready to step out of the daily grind.” However, she will be working with the Sonoma County Office of Education’s leadership academy, which works with students in four counties besides Sonoma. Schipper is also trained to be an administrative coach and will begin doing so in the fall. Finally, she and her husband plan on doing some long-awaited traveling.
