A Bittersweet Farewell to Michelle Compton

A Bittersweet Farewell to Michelle Compton

Colleague Tracy Abfall (L) leads Michelle Compton at her clap-out.

The role Michelle Compton played in the lives of our students and staff over the last eight years is absolutely immeasurable.  

Michelle worked in all three of our buildings, making her mark with every student who was lucky enough to have her as an integral part of their education. Michelle is moving to Columbus as her husband accepted a job there.

As a farewell to her colleagues, in her own kind, supportive, and gracious words – one of Michelle’s trademarks – she expressed the joy she felt working at Keystone. Michelle states, “Many of you have affected my life in more positive ways than I could possibly put into words, and for that I will be forever grateful. This is a job that I love to come to every day, and I couldn't do it without all of the nice, loving people I work with. Those of you I have been blessed to work with have impacted my life immeasurably. I am grateful to have gotten to know so many of you, and my life is more enriched because of it. I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and that life is a journey. Thank you for your continued friendship, love, "listening ears," and acceptance.”

Michelle’s words are echoed in the immeasurable gratefulness of her colleagues.  Her impact is best expressed in their sentiments. 

Math Teacher Tracy Clarico writes,

I am abundantly grateful that Michelle Compton came into my life and we developed such a genuine friendship. Her presence immediately fills a room with cheer, hope and a renewed spirit that is a rare find. No matter what storms may be brewing in her own life, Michelle's delightfulness and radiant smile make you feel like you are center stage in her world and she will do whatever is possible to assist you.  One cannot help but be drawn in by her genuine charm and engaging conversation. That is why a multitude of students felt so comfortable asking Michelle for help. She impacted so many of their lives for the better!

Michelle is one-of-a kind and anyone who has met her will instantly agree. She is an amazing "boy mom" who loves baseball, will get dirty if needed, and will go head to head with the biggest and toughest of people who may shake her beliefs. Yet, Michelle is poised, gracious, generous, sweet and as classy as they come. I admire her passion for life, her devotion to her friends and family and I am forever grateful that our paths crossed. I gained a true gem of a friend and I pray her next chapter is filled with as much love and kindness as the imprint she left on all our hearts Keystone.

KHS Family & Consumer Science Teacher Shannon Heffernan writes,

I can't even begin to put into words how much I am going to miss Michelle.  I'm still very much in denial that you are leaving us.  You have been such an amazing friend & coworker.  Thank you for everything you have helped me with for my FCS classes over the years.  I expect you to return as a chaperone for the apple picking & LCCC field trips, along with continuing to be a guest judge for the cooking competitions!  You are hands down one of the most caring, kind, and hard-working people I know.  You truly put your ALL in everything you do, much of which is done behind the scenes.  I will miss you, friend!

KHS English Teacher Mike Hogue writes,

I will always remember Michelle for her flat-out unwillingness to allow students to give up.  Everyone always hopes that each student in the school has at least one adult they know they can go to, and she somehow had the patience, personality, and energy to be that one person for so many that otherwise would have slipped through the cracks. 

KHS Special Education Teacher Tracy Abfall writes,

The positive connections you have made with the students in this building is overwhelming! The students and staff will truly miss you! You will be leaving behind large shoes to fill. Enjoy the next chapter of your story

KHS Administrative Assistant Kathy Pinto writes,

 “I will miss our office chats and laughter but the thing that I will miss the "mostest" is her Ooey Gooey Cake!  Love you Michelle and wishing you all the very best as you begin this new adventure!!!  Please come back and see us!!!!”  

KHS Principal James Kohler writes,

Michelle Compton is the model that all educators should aspire to in their professional career. She is the first to volunteer for everything and has never shied away from difficult tasks. Her heart is probably her greatest attribute. There are so many stories of how she has personally helped other adults and students find the support they needed to make it through a tragic event.

I will forever be grateful for the support she has given me throughout my career at Keystone High School. I count myself lucky to have had the opportunity to know her, work with her and call her my friend.

KHS Social Studies Teacher Scott Schuster writes,

Thank you so much for chaperoning the DC trip! It is amazing how you are always so positive, especially when the trip can be challenging!!

KHS Math Teacher Leah Tesny writes,

Michelle is one of the kindest people I have ever met.  She cares so deeply about our students and our staff, and goes above and beyond her job daily to help everyone.  She is someone that I know I can go to with any issues, and she will listen and do anything she can to help.  Even on her very last day here, she is still checking in on students having issues.  There will be a large Michelle shaped hole in the hearts of everyone here at Keystone.

Special Education Supervisor Nikki Campbell writes,

There is no good way for me to bid you farewell. You are such an integral part of this district....you are our constant optimist and cheerleader! The hole you will leave is giant...one that will quite possibly never really be filled. Thank you for your years of service to Keystone and for being the ultimate definition of what a SPEDucator is!  Please know that you will always have a home here at Keystone...Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat! Best wishes on the next chapter of your journey through life!

KHS Social Studies Teacher Don Griswold writes,

“I have been blessed to work alongside Michelle Compton for years and see her dedication to students and their needs firsthand. Michelle often arrives to work early and leaves late despite having fixed hours. She routinely exceeds her job description as she pairs problems with solutions to meet students where they are. She is the perfect balance of grace, grit, and "kick in the pants" that help students be the best versions of themselves.” 

Special Education Teacher Kara Griswold writes,

“What can I say about Michelle, or Aunt Shelle, as our children know her. She was a KMS co-worker who instantly became a friend, and then family.  She is selfless, loving, an incredible listener, and a person you can go to for anything.  I believe people are brought into your life for a reason, and Michelle is no exception.  Between the birthday parties, watching our daughter when our son was born, and the endless list of kind-hearted acts, we have made so many memories. I will miss you dear friend, please know what an impact you had on my life and I am forever grateful for you and our friendship. 

KHS Math Teacher Anna Saxton writes,

“In just two short years of working here at Keystone High School, I have observed one thing when it comes to Michelle Compton - She is the foundation of our building. Regardless of who you talk to, our staff and students thrive on her stability, organization, kindness, and her selflessness. For anyone asking, she does far more than what her job description says she has to do. Michelle doesn't just meet a standard, she EXCEEDS that standard without needing the recognition, and that speaks very highly of her character. I am so honored to have had the chance to work with her and I wish her the best of luck.”

KMS English Teacher Donna Knight writes,

What a bright light you have always been. You never fail to bring positivity and smiles into the room. It has been an honor to have known not only you, but your wonderful boys as well. Bless you as you embark on this new and exciting adventure. I am confident that your new journey will be rewarded with the same appreciation and lasting friendships as you have made here at Keystone.

Take your dreams and soar, and know that you will always have family up north:)

KHS Paraprofessional Brooke Creak writes,

I am so incredibly thankful I had the opportunity to work alongside Michelle. I have learned so much from her. Her ability to always find the good in every situation is something I really admire about her. Michelle gives unwavering support to any student (or staff member) that needs it.  Not only did I find an amazing coworker in Michelle, I also found a great friend!

KHS Social Studies Teacher Chris Vondruska writes,

Michelle is the ultimate team player who loves kids, her colleagues, and her community. She came to work everyday to go above and beyond any work description and will truly be missed


THANK YOU, MICHELLE

In regards to the future, Michelle states that she may do volunteer work, resume her role as “Domestic Engineer,” revisit her journalism degree, or start her own business with a focus on proofreading, editing, and ghost writing. Regardless of what her future holds in Columbus, Michelle states, “Whatever it is, it will be intentional and fulfilling; life is too short to choose to do otherwise.

Michelle, thank you for blessing us with eight years of your life. We are so thankful that you have and will always be a part of the Keystone Family.