Farewell Ceremony at Azalea Elementary for Retiring Principal

Students and faculty at St. Petersburg's Azalea Elementary will greatly miss their principal upon her retirement at the end of this school year. Susan A. Boyd has decided, after eleven years, that it's time to move on and spend more time with her family. In a farewell speech, she told Dr. Julie M. Janssen, Superintendent of Pinellas County Schools, that the credit for her success goes to those "behind the scenes"-students, their families, an excellent staff, and support from the community. She was a hands-on principal who knew her students by name and rolled up her sleeves when a job needed to be done, whether that was making a tough decision or being dumped in a water tank at the annual school festival.

The courtyard was filled with well-wishers today, gathered to say farewell to Mrs. Boyd. A bejewelled 'princess chair' was on-stage awaiting her arrival. She asked the children if that was her style and in one loud voice they proclaimed, "No!" She then took a seat on the floor of the stage, legs dangling. All of the staff were wearing tee-shirts with the words, "Property of Azalea", with one presented to her by Coach Evans who stated, "Because we consider you the property of Azalea". Mrs. Boyd assured everyone she was going to retire but was not tired so she plans to be on hand occasionally next year as a volunteer, ready to help where needed, even if that means more of the dunk tank.

The flag was proudly carried out by the student patrols and with hands on our hearts, we all said the National Anthem. Having practiced the past couple of weeks, the students sang songs, clapped, and shouted out the "three A cheer". The Step Club wore shirts with the letters BADD (Boyd's Awesome Divas and Dudes) and stood up to their name, giving an awesome performance. The show ended with the choir singing, "Goodnight, Farewell" from the Sound of Music. Parents and other visitors were invited to a small reception in the media center where refreshments were served.

Channel 8, Tampa Bay Online, happened to be following Dr. Janssen around as she went through her day so they were on hand for the ceremony. The poor cameraman had to move his position several times as more classes came out and took their seats. He remained patient and pleasant as he loaded up his heavy equipment each time, including his final place in the sun.

Mrs. Boyd received several flowers and special gifts meant to show how much she will be missed and that her years of dedication have been appreciated. The students put together travel binders loaded with state-by-state information and pictures of her years at Azalea to help her as she spends time traveling the country. They sent away for brochures and coupons and put them in an accompanying box to be pulled out as needed. She will be enjoying the sites and expanding her knowledge while visiting loved ones. The students, parents, and P.T.A. were able to put together enough money to fulfill a wish she has had for several years. No statues or special honors for her! Four benches, with a small plaque, will be installed around the Eagle that is out front where students are picked up after school. I, for one, will be grateful for somewhere to sit as I wait in the heat for my grandchildren to come out.

Happy RV'ing, Mrs. Boyd! Enjoy your family but don't forget about the big family you are leaving behind. They expect to see you again!