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Go Panthers! Reflecting on 3 decades of service to PUSD

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It is difficult for me to fully describe the impact Peoria Unified School District and the community it serves has had on me both personally and professionally.

I began teaching at Peoria High School in 1987.

My plan was to teach for a year, save money and head out to California.

Obviously, my plan never materialized.

I have had the honor of serving the district for over 30 years, and I have no doubt this occurred because I began my journey at Peoria High School.

It was and is a special place.

I felt it from the beginning.

Peoria was not only a place I worked ... it was my family, it was my community and it was my home away from home. I was surrounded by a team of colleagues with one common purpose: The needs of our students would always be at the forefront of every decision we made.

I became immersed in the Peoria Way. Peoria High School has always been proud to highlight the fact that all students, despite their nationality, race or religion were welcomed.

It is often easy to forget this was not always the case in many schools throughout turbulent times in history. Peoria High School’s diverse population of students has always been a source of pride and strength.

My very first class I taught was in Old Main. I was told to be prepared, on time and to always treat each student with love, grace and honesty. I was also told this job and the Peoria community would change my life. It did.

The day I became principal of Peoria High School was the highlight of my career.

Working alongside passionate and dedicated teachers to better serve our students was a dream come true. The work was not always easy but we, as a family, always found a way to work through any and all challenges.

I have left out so many highlights and accomplishments. The banners and trophies can speak to all of those. I have not mentioned the teachers, counselors, staff members and administrators who guided me throughout my years in this district. They all have a special place in my heart and I still draw upon their knowledge and expertise.

I also want to thank the students and their families. The relationship between the community and Peoria High School is magical. The generations of families that have attended Peoria High School is a testament to the support you have provided year after year.

I hope I have been able to articulate the immense gratitude, pride and reverence I have for Peoria High School.

California never had a chance against PHS!

Go Panthers!

Editor’s note: Ms. Bridgewater is the executive director of elementary education at PUSD.