THE NEXT CHAPTER

Schools, by nature, are a business of turnover. Students graduate. Families move. This summer, Prairie says ‘goodbye’ to three profoundly impactful educators.

Before they hit the open round, we caught up with them this spring to ask, “What’s next?”

— By Brendan J. O’Brien

CHAOYING YAN World Language Teacher

What are you most looking forward to in retirement?

I will travel to see the beautiful country – national parks, Route 66, the western coast. I will travel to see much of the world as well. I will travel anywhere in the world as long as there is a deal. I want to see and learn about different cultures, taste different foods.

I plan to continue riding my bike for fun, also. This was inspired by Dr. [Jean] Weaver during the COVID lockdown.

Finally, I plan to continue supporting all Prairie sports, coming to as many games as possible. And I will have all the time in the world since I will be retired. Go Hawks.

MAGGIE MCDONOUGH Head of Upper School

What’s next?

Moving to Vermont and rejoining my husband who moved there 16 months ago. I think I still know what he looks like.

What are you most looking forward to in retirement?

The ever-changing and neverchanging Green Mountains. Wind in the trees, silent starry nights, pine air, spring-fed lakes. And time. Time with my husband, children, and grandchildren. Time to volunteer and freelance. Time to read and write. Time to grow flowers and vegetables. Time to grow old in my anteroom to heaven.

What will you miss most about Prairie?

The noble work of forming and reforming education, but most of all the colleagues, students, and families whose energy and synergy make this school extraordinary every. single. day.

DR. MARIA FIOCCHI World Language Teacher/Department Coach

What’s next?

I will be spending time with family, splitting my time between Kansas and Argentina. I have also started my own YouTube channel where I hope to share lessons and videos. I think my goal will always be to share the language and culture I love with as many people as I possibly can.

Follow Dr. Maria Fiocchi’s YouTube channel: Un papelito-ua