Weller teacher retires after four decades in the classroom

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Beloved Weller Elementary School teacher Ralene Graves is retiring this year.

Graves sat down with KOLR 10 ahead of the last day of school, and reflected on a career she is very proud of. Graves has been an educator for 39 years, with 34 being spent at Springfield Public Schools (SPS). From a young age, she felt teaching was her calling.

“I never have really experienced what people call ‘burnout,'” Graves says with a laugh. “I think that’s from the good Lord above. I just feel very passionate about my work, I feel passionate about my students and kids, and seeing the learning process.”

While she says it’s time to retire, she knows what she will miss the most – her students.

“The kids. Absolutely. I just love them, and I love pouring into them and they pour into me,” Graves said.

That is one reason Graves is at peace with her decision to walk away. However, she admits there have been some teary eyed moments along the way.

“I will not be back in a classroom in the same way ever again. My classroom, my family of kids that you make over the year. I’ve gotten such sweet notes from kids,” says Graves.

She says while it’s been a rollercoaster of emotions, she’s excited for whatever comes next and that she will still work with kids.

“I know that some way I’ll still be involved with kids because that passion hasn’t left, and I can’t see it leaving for the foreseeable future,” said Graves.

Graves intends to volunteer in her free time working with children in retirement.

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