Sylvan Elementary teacher Sarah Farrell standing with four of her students in front of an outdoor chalkboard with the words "I'm Retiring" and student drawings of hearts, stars, and words of encouragement around it

After nearly three decades of teaching and giving back to the Snow Camp community, Sarah Farrell is retiring from Sylvan Elementary at the end of this school year. Farrell first came to Sylvan in 1995 and has taught first, second, and third grades, in addition to serving as Curriculum Facilitator for several years.

Teacher Sarah Farrell standing in front of Sylvan Elementary wearing a yellow Sylvan Blue Jays t-shirt"I came to Sylvan in 1995. I taught first grade for 13 years. I was the Curriculum Facilitator for a few years but missed being with kids so I moved to a first and second combination class. I taught third grade for the past 13 years," said Farrell. "Kevin and I moved to Snow Camp 1998. We were active with the Sylvan Athletic Association for many years."

Teacher Sarah Farrell looking at a large metal basin full of soil and plants with four students around herFarrell and her family have deep roots in Snow Camp. "My kids and I were actors in the Snow Camp Outdoor Drama for several summers. All of my kids have attended Sylvan. This community has been a huge part of my life. I couldn't think of a better place to raise a family," she said. The Farrells started Sarahlina Farm and have consistently given back to Sylvan over the years.

Teacher Sarah Farrell wearing a yellow Sylvan school shirt, standing beside four elementary in various graphic teesPrincipal Dr. Nancy Mark spoke glowingly of Farrell's contributions. "Sarah Farrell is an icon at Sylvan. She has such strong connections with the community and level of respect from students and families that is uncommon. She initiated and coordinated our 'Outdoor Classroom' and organizes our beautification day each school year. She is a mentor for beginning teachers, and is seemingly the mother of our school. She will truly be missed and we wish her the best in whatever she does after retirement."

These photographs feature children of some of Farrell's former students, a touching tribute to the impact she has had on generations of Snow Camp families during her teaching career.

Four elementary students hug teacher Sarah FarrellA chalkboard with text I'm Retiring, names Mack, Andy, Paisee, and child drawings of hearts, flowers, and smiley faces