It's the end of an era for Cherie Saunders.
The kindergarten teacher at Beach Grove Elementary is calling it a career at the end of this school year.
"I've loved it. I've given it my all, but it's time to go on to new things," said Saunders, who's been a teacher for 33 years, 20 of those spent at Beach Grove.
Saunders started her career in Langley and spent nine years there before moving to the Delta school district and bounced around a bit between Beach Grove, Cliff Drive, Port Guichon, before settling back at Beach Grove.
Saunders, who has taught grades 1 and 4 as well at Beach Grove, said she loves working with kids and enjoys teaching with tangible things.
"I love seeing the excitement in their faces when they learn new things."
Over the years her students have dissected owl pellets and squid as well as having chicks and butterfly larvae in the classroom.
One of the highlights for Saunders was setting up her classroom, usually once a year, as a tropical rainforest for lessons on plant and animal life cycles.
"It's usually quite a popular thing for the kids. They love it."
Saunders, who lives in Beach Grove, said she loves teaching in her own community and goes to the graduation ceremony at South Delta Secondary every year.
She also gave kudos to the parents and teachers at Beach Grove.
"At Beach Grove school we've been extremely fortunate to have such good parental support. They do fundraising that gives us the opportunity to buy materials for our classrooms we wouldn't normally have had," she said, adding that the other teachers are devoted to their students.
As for retirement plans Saunders expects to do some sailing with her husband as well as traveling to England and South Africa.
Principal Rachael Corneil said she will be sad to see Saunders go.
"She's one of those teachers who's a pillar in the community and a pillar in the school community as well," said Corneil.
