Earlier today, with tears in her eyes and adopted daughter sophomore Grace Branson by her side, Principal Ms. Barbara Brouwer announced to SHS staff members that she would be retiring from the position she says she has had the privilege of having for the past 10 years.

Although the decision was not easy, Brouwer believes the choice to retire is what is best for her and her family.

Because of health issues that have recently affected her immediate family, Brouwer feels her family needs her now more than ever. She is ready to finally put her health and that of her family’s first in her life.

“Cancer has hit my immediate family and when those that are the closest to you have a life threatening disease, it definitely changes your outlook on life,” Brouwer said.

Brouwer says the atmosphere at SHS is different than any other school she has visited and the relationships she has created with the students and her colleagues are so significant that it makes leaving the career she loves much harder.

“My family for the past ten years has been the teachers and staff,” Brouwer said. “It’s an unbelievable feeling to be a part of this school and this family.”