By GAGE WILSON
for Glasgow News 1
After 27 years of championing students with exceptional needs, Susan Mathews is closing the book on her chapter with Caverna Independent Schools — though her legacy will continue writing itself in classrooms for years to come.
Mathews’ retirement ceremony was held at the Caverna High School Library, which was decorated in the district’s iconic purple and white. Dozens of Mathews’ peers and friends gathered to support her and share memories.
Tonya Handley shared her experience working with Mathews, “She is one of the best — because she used every opportunity as a teaching or coaching moment.” Gage Wilson/for Glasgow News 1
“She’s a tremendous person,” said former board chairman Wayne Hatcher. “I don’t know that we will find anyone to be able to keep the ball rolling like Susan.”
The ceremony began at 1 p.m. with Superintendent Amanda Abell inviting anyone who wished to speak about Mathews. April Bower, the school’s psychologist, shared her impressions.
“Just as a person, she’s very laid back and approachable, and I think that’s what makes her unique. She can talk to anybody, and she’s very compassionate when it comes to families and teachers…. She just brings such a warm presence.”
Abell shared similar thoughts.
“I’ve said for years that Susan Mathews is one of the best special ed teachers in the state, and I will tell you — it will be truly hard to find someone with her expertise. Not only that, she is an amazing leader, and everyone who works under her looks up to her and has a lot of respect for her.”
Mathews shared her history with the schools beginning with her career in the classroom in the 1990s, spending 12 years as a teacher before taking on the role of director.
“I think it means a lot that I’ve been with one district the entire time,” she said. “You see a lot of people come and go, and you learn from them.”
Speaking about her time at the district, Mathews said her students and staff have been a constant source of inspiration.
She noted that she has “a couple” of vacations planned to enjoy her newfound time, but offered words of wisdom to her successor. “Good luck,” she said.
As guests finished publicly sharing their memories, many broke off to share more personal anecdotes with Mathews and each other. Gage Wilson/for Glasgow News 1
Abell said the district will be seeking someone with both a deep knowledge of special education and a strong passion for student advocacy.
“Mathews has been an amazing asset to the district,” she said. “Finding someone to fill her shoes will be a hard task for sure.”
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