Local principal retiring after 35 years

LEAMINGTON — When the end of the 2020-21 school year arrives, Gore Hill Elementary Public School Principal will call it a career.

Bill Cervini, who’s been the Principal at Gore Hill for the past eight years, had plans to retire last June, but the COVID pandemic kept him on for one more year.

“I had plans to retire last June, but when COVID hit, I reconsidered,” he said. “I didn’t want someone new to have to come in and deal with the COVID situation.”

Mr. Cervini cited his familiarity with the classrooms and students as a reason to stay on and see the school through the past year.

His teaching career began 35 years ago when he took a job with the old Windsor School Board at a French Immersion school.

Eventually, he became Vice Principal at Sandwich West Public School and then became Principal at East Mersea Public School in Leamington.

One of Mr. Cervini’s passions at Gore Hill was eco-schools and the school’s amazing green space. Here, he assists JK student Kenley Neufeld with planting wildflower seeds in the school’s butterfly garden.

That move gave him his first Principal’s job and also brought him back to the community where he grew up.

“I’m a Leamington boy,” he said. “I love this community.”

After eight years at East Mersea, Mr. Cervini was named Principal at Ruthven Public School until its closure. He then moved on to Gore Hill, where he really connected with the students.

When the doors close behind him on June 30, Bill Cervini will pivot into retirement, but will always look back fondly at the Gators of Gore Hill.

“I will absolutely miss this school community,” he says. “Gore Hill has been a lot of fun. I will be keeping my eye on them.”

Among the great memories he has, he’s most proud of the independence, advocacy and leadership that the students of Gore Hill have embraced.

“Gore Hill is an eight time Gold School with Eco-Schools Canada,” he said. “The kids have a great sense of leadership and environmental stewardship.”

BILL CERVINI

The success of their annual Gator Food Drive has been another highlight, as well as the transition from school council to Principal’s Council.

“We also spearheaded an amazing 60th Anniversary celebration for the school in 2015,” he said. “That was a pleasure to participate in.”

As for the future, Mr. Cervini says he’ll have no trouble staying busy, as he’s actively involved with his church and has also started working with South Essex Community Council, assisting newcomers with their English skills. He plans on continuing his life of service.

“I want to continue to help others,” he added.

In whatever spare time he can muster, he’s also part of a vocal group that — during non-COVID times — tours the area and performs for various audiences.

Next September, Gore Hill will welcome their new Principal, Christina Potti, who is coming in from Talbot Trail Public School in Windsor.

And Bill Cervini will be able to relax a little, smiling at his fond memories of the school community that he loves.