Christian School says goodbye to dearly loved teacher
Surprise: The Coshocton Christian School had a surprise going away party Dec. 16, for high school teacher Tara Parson. Pictured in front is Tara and in back, from left, are her parents Dan and Wendy and Principal Stan Zurowski. Beacon photo by Josie Sellers
COSHOCTON – A Coshocton Christian School teacher is moving on to answer God’s calling, but the students and staff couldn’t let her go without a celebration.
What started out as a Christmas program on Dec. 16, was really a surprise party in disguise for Tara Parson, who taught social studies and English to the high school students.
Students worked together to make a video sharing what Parson has meant to the school during her five and a half years there and one of the people they interviewed was Principal Stan Zurowski.
“She knows her subjects well and has a way of communicating with her students that gets them excited and makes them want to learn more,” he said. “She also helps them seek God’s will for their lives.”
Many others interviewed in the video also talked about her dedication to her job and in following the Lord.
When the video ended, a teacher who Parson was particularly close with shared a few words about her.
“You all hit the nail on the head,” said Cindy Kraft. “She’s caring, funny, stylish and loves the Lord with all her heart and I think that is evident to the students. She’s given her whole heart to this job.”
She also had a personal message for Parson.
“God has given you a great ability,” Kraft said. “Never shy away from using it. I will miss you dearly.”
Zurowski presented Parson with a gift from the school and then gave Pastor Jason Diaz the opportunity to speak.
“You’ve been a fantastic addition to this school and will be missed,” he said. “You are irreplaceable. We may be able to fill your position, but we will never replace you and the impact you’ve had on people’s lives here.”
Diaz and Zurowski also said they will all pray for her as she begins the next phase of her life at Sherrodsville Wesleyan Church, where she will serve as the worship director for children and youth.
“I was totally surprised today,” Parson said. “I really appreciate it. The students did a great job with the video. It was amazing. I’m going to miss the kids the most.”
Zurowski is currently in the process of trying to find someone to fill in for Parson. He’s working with several college placement offices and is coordinating with retired teachers. Any retired teacher interested in filling the position for the rest of the year, is welcome to contact the school at 622-5052.
“My advice to the new teacher would be to keep the kids challenged and push them to be their best and not please anyone but God,” Parson said.
josie@coshoctoncountybeacon.com
Category: Education, Multimedia, Photo Galleries
