SCH Bids Farewell to Longtime Employees Retiring This Year

Charlie Grogan is a long time math teacher and coordinator, who has served the SCH community for 35 years. His presence has been felt by everyone he has interacted with at the school. From his students, to his colleagues, Mr. Grogan was seen as a hardworking person, who worked closely with his students to help them learn and grow. His wealth of knowledge at a variety of levels in mathematics saw him working closely with all students at SCH. He not only coordinated the Lower School Math in Focus curriculum, but also helped students in Middle School, as well as teach numerous Upper School math classes. His colleague and Math Department Chair, Derrick Keister, stated that he was inspired by “his commitment to teaching our students,” as well as his desire to help each and everyone of his students. Thank you Mr. Grogan.

After two decades of dedication to the school, Sharon Herzog is retiring from her role as a pre-K girls teacher at SCH. Known for her warmth and compassion, Ms. Herzog has shaped the early experiences of countless students. Many of her former students recall their time in her classroom as “some of the best early memories” they have at SCH. Her classroom was filled with laughter and the kind gentle encouragement that sets a positive tone for a lifetime of learning. “As a parent, I couldn’t have asked for a more loving, professional, and devoted teacher,” said Ms. Gellhorn whose daughter Louisa spent two years in Ms. Herzog’s class. Colleagues say her passion and deep care for each child made her a cornerstone of the school community. As she steps into retirement, Ms. Herzog leaves behind a legacy of kindness, learning, and joy. We thank her for 20 wonderful years of service, and wish her the best in her future endeavors.
“She always made everyone feel included and welcome. She was encouraging. If you were good at something, she would want you to continue doing it,” said Ziya DeVeaux ’27 of Lower School Girls fourth grade teacher Peggy Grady. Ms. Grady is known for the lasting impact she has on her students, often sending her past students handwritten notes after their Upper School graduation. Over her 31 years at the school, Ms. Grady has accomplished a lot. She played a key role in creating the Lower School’s BREATHE program, which helps to “assist faculty in having challenging conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion, when situations arise that require discussion and understanding.” This initiative is just one example of Ms. Grady’s deep commitment to the school and its values. As she moves on to her next chapter, we thank her for all she’s given to our community and wish her nothing but the best.

Since joining Springside in 1996, Anne Stout has been a steady, compassionate presence as the Lower and Middle School nurse. “She’s been caring for students and adults alike for so many years with just the right dose of caring, concern and good humor and her trademark—the all healing bag of ice which seems to be a cure for so many ailments!” said Lower School reading specialist Christy Yaffe. Her dedication to the well-being of our community earned her recognition as an honorary alumna in 2011. In 2021, as the school emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Stout was honored with the Distinguished Service Award for her “devotion to the health and safety of our community.” Her impact is felt far beyond the nurse’s office, and her legacy of service will remain part of Springside Chestnut Hill for years to come.
After 21 years of dedicated service, Karen Scullion will retire from SCH at the end of this school year. Ms. Scullion joined Springside in 2004 to run the school store, transforming it into a welcoming hub full of SCH gear for every student and community member. In 2012, she transitioned into the Business Office as the Accounts Payable Manager, where her humor, strong work ethic, and attention to detail made her an invaluable team member. According to Chief Financial Officer Frank Aloise, while her loyalty to the Baltimore Ravens may have sparked some good-natured debates, she quickly became a beloved part of the community. Ms. Scullion’s presence, professionalism, and warmth will be deeply missed. We wish her all the best in this next chapter!
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