By Heather Pilkington, Register Staff Writer
Gainesville Daily Register
Gainesville —
After 33 years in the education field, Patti Mercer is retiring as principal of W.E. Chalmers Elementary School.
Mercer began her career by teaching the fourth grade in Magaragel. After a year of teaching there, she moved on to become a teacher at Muenster. For the last 29 years, Mercer has put her time in helping the Gainesville students as teacher, reading specialist and principal.
“I have had the great fortune to be surrounded by extremely talented and caring teachers and staff members who continually strive for excellence,” Mercer said.
But it is the children that Mercer works with that she said she will miss the most.
“I have loved working with students of all ages,” Mercer said. “The students here give us their best efforts on a daily basis and make us proud of their performance levels. I enjoy and love what I do.”
For her retirement, Mercer says she will be spending time with her family. This includes helping her daughter plan for her upcoming marriage in July and spending time with Max Mercer, her 18-month-old grandson.
“I appreciate the loyalty and support shown to me over the years,” Mercer said. “It has been my great pleasure to be able to serve our students, teachers, parents, and community for the past 31 years. I have met so many wonderful people and feel my life has been truly blessed because of these relationships.”
A retirement party was held for Mercer Wednesday afternoon so that friends and family could congratulate her and wish her well in retirement.
