Cooper retires after 25 years in Reardan

REARDAN – It has been said that behind every good school is a great principal, and this could not be more true for Reardan Elementary. Out of his 47 years in education, Dwight Cooper has been Reardan Elementary's principal for the last 25 years.

Throughout his time as principal, Cooper has made deep connections with students and staff, pursued opportunities of excellence and gone above and beyond to ensure that every student and teacher in our school strives to be their best selves. He has shared in countless laughs, student successes and been a remarkable leader.

When asked to reflect on fond memories of Cooper, second grade teacher Carrie Bacon remembered how he would go to extremes to motivate students. She recalled how a few years ago, Cooper made an agreement with her second graders to help them reach their reading goals. The agreement was that any time one of them met their reading goal they would get to shove a pie in Cooper's face, in front of the whole school during an assembly. Needless to say, many of the students reached their goals that year.

A favorite memory for younger kids is when Cooper would come to each class for Dr. Suess week and read a Dr. Seuss book. Dwight was able to use a different voice for each character in the story Horton Hears a Who, getting much laughter out of the kids.

Others remember Cooper greeting kids at breakfast time, giving high-fives in the hallways, and always quick with a joke.

For me personally, beginning my teaching career at Reardan with Mr. Cooper as a principal has set a high standard for any principal I may have in the future. He has supported and encouraged me to grow as an educator, and learner the past three years at Reardan.

In her famous TedTalk, Rita Pierson said, "Every child deserves a champion - An adult who will never give up on them, understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be."

Cooper has been that champion for countless children in the Reardan-Edwall School District over the past 25 years. He will be remembered as a pig enthusiast, amazing storyteller and devout educator.