By Plamena Quintavalla, Bronxville School Reporter for Syntax

Jul. 6, 2016:  With a combined teaching experience of more than 150 years, eight Bronxville School teachers and faculty members are retiring this school year.

Donna Bianco, Jim Brogan, Janet Corvini, Tim Curran, Virginia Gentile, Mary Schenck, Glenn Stockton, and Chuck Yochim, who have made a difference in the lives of hundreds of students, said they'll miss the daily interactions with their committed colleagues and curious students.

"Retirement is bittersweet," said Mary Schenck, who taught English at the middle school and high school for more than 30 years. "I will miss working with young people, who are so full of energy and enthusiasm, and watching them develop into even more thoughtful writers and readers. I will miss the daily interactions with my colleagues who have become my second family."

Schenck said she's looking forward to traveling with her husband and discovering new passions.

Virginia Gentile, an elementary school skills teacher at Bronxville for 19 years, is not sure what retirement might bring but said she is looking forward to the next chapter of her life.

"My greatest joy as a teacher has been working with children and being a part of their success as young learners," she said. "Witnessing the excitement and pride young students displayed as they became capable readers was a wonderful reward. What a gift it has been to touch the lives of so many and to be touched in return. I will miss their energy, joy, and innocence."

Chuck Yochim, who taught math at the middle school for 23 years, said he will miss the interactions with his students and colleagues, but he is ready for life's new adventure. After starting his first career as a radio broadcaster and journalist, publishing his work could be his next job.

With 15 years behind her as an elementary school music teacher at Bronxville, Janet Corvini said she has enjoyed working with faculty members who have the vision, courage, and commitment to be lifelong learners. The best part about her job, she said, has been the opportunity to watch her students grow and develop. Upon retirement, Corvini plans to serve as the president-elect of the Westchester County School Music Association, to continue performing as a clarinetist with several community bands, and to travel.

Pictured here (L to R): Tim Curran, Janet Corvini, Virginia Gentile, Mary Schenck, Donna Bianco, Jim Brogan, and Glenn Stockton. Not pictured: Chuck Yochim.

Photo courtesy The Bronxville School