Cedar Island Elementary Teacher to Retire After 38 Years

For the last 38 years, Catherine Leuer has worked with some of the youngest elementary students in the Osseo School District.

As of June, she will be turning in the textbooks to retire from teaching.

During her time in District 279, Leuer has been longtime staffer at Cedar Island Elementary in Maple Grove, teaching one year of kindergarten and 37 years as a first grade teacher.

“I know this may seem unusual in this day and age, but I did find a second home and wonderful career here at CI,” she said of the time at the elementary.  “The reason I didn’t need change? Teaching reading to young students; watching their eyes sparkle as they realize putting sounds together makes words they can read. Seeing them develop into confident, passionate readers! Exposing children to the wonderful world of books and their messages has been my reward.”

She has been more than a teacher to the Cedar Island community, serving as a team leader, working on curriculum writing and has been an active participant in the Cedar Island Parent Teacher Organization for 26 years – all areas she includes as highlights of her career.

“I have made wonderful connections through the families at CI. This will be one of the things I miss most,” Leuer said.

As she prepares for retirement, Patch asked Leuer to share her advice for new teachers and students:

“Be a lifelong learner. As an educator, you must be willing to try new approaches as our society changes. It makes you stay on your toes,” she said. “To my students - find your passion. It may not bring you all the money in the world, but happiness is priceless!”  

Leuer started in the Osseo School District in Aug. 21, 1975 and will retire June 7, 2013.

Editor's note: Do you have any retirement messages for Catherine Lauer? Share them in comments below.