Vero Beach High School math teacher Kathleen Nestor just saw her final graduating class off to college last week. Next week she’ll administer her last set of final exams.
Then it will be “school’s out” permanently, for the first time in 36 years.
The dedicated teacher is about to experience a major shift in her schedule, and says retiring is “a little scary. This has been my life.”
A Floridian since age 8, Nestor started teaching right after earning her bachelor’s degree in mathematics and education from the University of South Florida in Tampa.
Things were quite a bit different in 1987 when she taught her first class at Oslo Middle School, her home for just one year before settling in at Vero Beach High School.
Students did not have cell phones, or electronic tablets. Textbooks were heavy and made of paper. Class notes were not provided to students – kids had to take down notes by hand.
Grades were recorded in spiral-bound grade books.
Much changed over the years, but Nestor adjusted and moved forward. “The highlights have been working with the kids and watching them grow and learn,” she said. “It makes you feel good when they’re doing well.”
A math enthusiast, Nestor taught many versions of her subject area over the decades, but her favorite to teach was algebra. What will she remember most? “There’s lots of ‘I got it’ moments that will always stand out.”
School District spokesperson Cristen Maddux had some of those moments when she took 10th grade algebra.
“Mrs. Nestor’s dedication has grounded countless students, nurturing growth and understanding,” she said. “The best part of my day was seeing Mrs. Nestor with her friendly smile and bubbly personality. She was patient and kind to every student regardless of their circumstances.”
The seasoned teacher had some tips for new teachers beginning their careers: “Always remember you are here for the kids. Continue learning as things keep changing.”
One thing Nestor looks forward to is seeing her former students and their children around town. Many times, she’s taught both generations. “I just feel like I’ve been very blessed,” she said. “The kids have treated me well.”
Photos by Joshua Kodis
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- Kathy Nestor
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- Kathy Nestor
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- Kathy Nestor
