RETIREMENTS

GUIDING YOUNG SPARTAN HEARTS AND MINDS

BY ELAINE CHOTOWETZ, ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LEARNING STRATEGIST

Recently retired, Larry Clark has always been a respected faculty member who made STS his home for 20 years. Social and emotional wellness have been at the centre of his work as a Guidance Counsellor and the Director of Student Services. During his time at STS, Larry supervised the Student Services team, facilitating and monitoring goals and initiatives, and developing meaningful policies to help support STS students. Over the years, Larry’s organization of outside counselling sessions and presentations by consulting psychologists helped to support and guide parents, teachers, and students. His greatest strength has been his positive attitude and empathy towards others, and by being a caring and accepting listener, he ensured that his office was always a welcoming and safe place. Through brain teasers, games and puzzles, students became comfortable and willing to open up, share their feelings, and discuss strategies.

Being a valued team player and advocate, colleagues, parents and students counted on Larry for support whenever it was needed. His leadership skills were demonstrated during the 2003 avalanche tragedy, and his contribution during an extremely difficult time in our School’s history was recognized when he received the Michael Copeland Award that year. As a result, his expertise and support were requested when other schools experienced crisis situations.

Larry’s sense of humour and his contagious laugh were welcome additions in many social settings and STS events, and he has often taken the role of ‘social convener’ over the years. He acted as master of ceremonies at employee functions, hosted barbeques, organized wine raffles, and encouraged employee get-togethers after school. Having a reputation as a ‘doer’, Larry never thought twice when asked to coach a Grade 7 basketball team, organize a huge tournament, or chaperone an Outdoor Education trip or university tour. He always relished the opportunity to make connections with students in a variety of settings.

His caring attitude and ability to bring out the best in others, along with his community spirit, will be greatly missed. Despite the fact that he is retiring, we can rest assured that Larry will always be a valued and respected member of the extended STS family.

Larry, we wish you much happiness and health as you pursue your next big adventures!