After 31 years as an educator in Union County Public Schools including the last 13 years as Superintendent, Mrs. Patricia Sheffer will be retiring from the district on June 30, 2024. Mrs. Sheffer made the announcement at Monday night’s regular Board of Education meeting.
“It has been an absolute blessing and honor to serve as your superintendent,” Sheffer emphasized. “Working alongside each of you to inspire the champion within has been the highlight of my career.”
In a letter addressed to Board members, Mrs. Sheffer shared the following message:
It is with a mix of emotions that I announce my retirement as Superintendent of Union County Public Schools, effective June 30th, 2024. This decision, though not made lightly, is a step toward facilitating a thorough search and interview process for the Board to ensure the continued growth of our schools. As a renowned Bible scripture Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 reminds us, “For everything there is a season, and the time for every matter under heaven…”
In my 31 years dedicated to the field of education, the past 13 as your Superintendent, it has been both an honor and a privilege to serve. My retirement is guided by the belief that life has its seasons, and it is now my season to step back and refocus on new priorities.
In the spirit of family growth, I am delighted to share that I am expecting another grandchild. This realization has reshaped my priorities, placing my family at the forefront. Thanksgiving brought this joyous news, reinforcing the significance of cherishing moments with loved ones and creating lasting memories with family and friends.
While my tenure as an educator spans over three decades, my newfound reason for staying involved in our school system is my grandchildren. They are the driving force behind my decision to remain invested in education, and who knows, I may even contemplate running for a seat on the Board of Education in the future.
As I step down, my sincere desire is for my successor to lead Union County Public Schools to new heights. I pray that the Board selects a superintendent who will operate from strong core values, prioritize the best interests of our students, and continue to enhance student opportunities.
Special thanks are extended to our dedicated staff and Board members who have unwaveringly supported our efforts to make great things happen for our primary customers – our students. Gratitude also goes to the parents and community members whose involvement has been instrumental in the success of our educational initiatives.
I express appreciation to The Sturgis News and Johnny R for consistently highlighting our students and staff for their remarkable accomplishments. Your commitment to factual reporting and spotlighting achievements has significantly contributed to the positive image of Union County Public Schools.
Beyond rocking my grandbabies and traveling with family and friends, I am committed to advocating for education on a broader scale. Addressing issues such as staff shortages and financial challenges will be at the forefront of my post-retirement endeavors.
My heart will always reside within the walls of Union County Public Schools. Together, we can drive conversations about respect by highlighting the exceptional work occurring in our schools and collectively work towards restoring education as a celebrated and actively pursued profession. The best is yet to come!
I want to express my deepest gratitude for the privilege of serving as Superintendent in my hometown. I eagerly anticipate supporting the Board in its future endeavors.
I am committed to supporting the selection of my successor in any manner the Board chooses and ensuring a smooth transition. There is no doubt – I will always be UC proud!
Sincerely,
Patricia L. Sheffer
Mrs. Sheffer also presented a general timeline for the Board to consider as it begins the process for selecting her successor. She noted that a vacancy would be posted this week. A screening committee will be formed consisting of two teachers, one Board member, one principal, one parent, and one classified employee to screen candidates and make recommendations to the Board. The Board will then interview candidates with the goal of naming a new Superintendent by May 1.
Mrs. Sheffer began her tenure as superintendent making history as Union County’s first female superintendent. She will also leave her post with the honorable distinction of serving as the longest-serving superintendent in Union County’s history.
Truly, Mrs. Sheffer will be missed, and her legacy will continue for generations to come. We sincerely thank her for the incredible dedication she has always shown to our students, staff, community, and the profession. We wish her a well-deserved happy retirement!
