Valued staff member retires | Taranaki News | Local News in Taranaki

A long-time and much valued member of the Stratford High School teaching staff, Stephanie Cox, retired from teaching at the end of September.

An honours graduate in Latin, with French, from Victoria University, Mrs Cox began teaching at Stratford High in 1987 following teacher training at Christchurch Teachers' College and teaching experience at Whangarei Girls' High and in Australia. At Stratford High, Mrs Cox worked firstly part time as a remedial reading teacher and then as teacher in charge of the Centre, assisting students to modify their behaviour so they could succeed in the classroom.

Until her retirement, Mrs Cox taught in the Special Needs department where she was much loved and respected by her students and those who worked with her. She was Acting HOD of Special Needs in 2000 and Joint HOD Special Needs from 2003 to 2005.

In 2001, Mrs Cox began teaching in the French department. Her love of all things French was reflected in her classroom teaching. Her students were fortunate to be taught by someone who understood the way a second language could become an exciting part of their lives.

Whether she was encouraging reluctant readers or teaching French as a second language, Mrs Cox brought to her teaching her passion for language and her dedication to making a difference in the lives of her students.

A dedicated and much loved member of the Stratford High School community, Mrs Cox will be missed by students and staff.

Pictured, Stephanie Cox retired from teaching at the end of September after years of dedicated service to her profession.