After 34 years of teaching at Sylvan Hills High School, Larie Scallon is reflecting on a career centered on supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.

Throughout her time at Sylvan Hills, Scallon has served as a drill team sponsor, coached volleyball and basketball, and assisted with the swim team. She says these experiences have shaped her approach to teaching and mentoring students.

“I’ve learned the importance of supporting students both inside and outside the classroom,” Scallon said. “I try to model a strong work ethic and a willingness to help others.”

One of the most rewarding parts of her career has been watching former students grow and succeed.

“It’s especially special to now be teaching students whose parents I once taught,” she said. “The friendships I’ve built with other faculty members here have also become like family.”

Beyond academics, Scallon hopes students leave her classroom with lessons that will stay with them long after graduation.

“I hope they leave with respect and empathy for others, confidence in themselves, and the understanding that hard work truly pays off,” she said. “Most of all, I want them to remember that mistakes are part of learning and that persistence leads to growth.”

As a longtime organizer of prom, this year is bittersweet as Scallon prepares to plan her final prom.

“I have both happy and sad emotions about it,” she said. “It takes a lot of work, but seeing everyone dressed up and enjoying the night makes it worth it.”

For Scallon, prom is memorable because it marks an important milestone.

“It’s one of the last times classmates come together before graduation,” she said. “Those moments often become memories students cherish for years.”