SWAMPSCOTT — From kindergarten classrooms to Advanced Placement English courses, this year’s six retiring educators have left their mark on generations of Swampscott students. 

The School Committee recently recognized high school English teacher Peter Franklin, middle school teacher Anita Pappas, and elementary school educators Christine Morgan, Donna Kielty, Catherine Quinn, and Allison Moore. 

High school Principal Emily Zotto opened by recognizing Franklin, who is departing after over 20 years at Swampscott High School. Zotto described Franklin as a demanding but beloved teacher whose classes challenged students while helping them find their own voices. 

“Peter has consistently championed all of our students’ growth with profound compassion, and this is truly the essence of Peter Franklin,” Zotto said. “You have modeled for our whole community what it means to live a life of passion, purpose, and true lifelong learning.” 

Franklin reflected on his journey in the school system, stemming from what he described as an awkward interview that left him feeling uncertain about his future. 

“I didn’t think I was going to be here for more than three or four years,” he said. “Twenty years later, I’m here. It has been awesome. I’ve had more fun. I hope I’ve made an impact.” 

Swampscott Middle School Principal Jessica Minter praised Pappas for her leadership, mentorship, and nearly three decades of service. Minter noted that Pappas began her career as an aide, and was part of the team that launched a pilot program to integrate the fifth grade into Swampscott Middle School. 

“As a fierce believer in collaboration, she has always championed the idea of working as one cohesive unit, making decisions together to ensure fairness and unity for every student,” Minter said. “Anita, you are leaving behind a true legacy of excellence. Thank you for making us a wonderful place to grow, learn, and teach.” 

As she prepared to close out her career in the district, Pappas said the decision to retire comes with mixed emotions.

“It has been a privilege to work in Swampscott for the past 28 years,” she said. “Leaving my classroom, my students, and my fifth-grade colleagues, who I do consider family, is truly bittersweet.” 

For Swampscott Elementary School, Principal Lori Sanborn recognized four retiring educators whose careers collectively touched generations of students. Morgan was honored for her 27 years in education, much of it spent teaching kindergarten and helping children navigate their first experiences in school. 

“From teaching letters and sounds to tying shoes, building confidence, and encouraging friendships, Christine understood how important those early years were in a child’s life,” Sanborn said. “Her classroom was a place filled with warmth, patience, encouragement, and care where every child felt welcomed and supported.” 

Morgan said her time in Swampscott had been “such a privilege.” 

“It saved me so many times,” she said. “I just knew that going into that classroom with those kids would just help me rise above anything … I just loved every minute of it.” 

Kielty was praised for her creativity, organization, and patience. Sanborn joked that in decades of teaching, they had never heard her raise her voice, describing her as someone who consistently brought compassion and calm to the school community. 

“The kindness, understanding, and grace you show to both students and colleagues never go unnoticed,” Sanborn said. “In a profession that asks so much of us, your compassion is truly remarkable … you make our school a better place, not just through the work you do, but through the wonderful person you are.” 

Quinn, a special educator, was recognized for her advocacy for students and staff, as well as her role in supporting colleagues through initiatives such as the school’s Sunshine Committee and her own Thankful Thursday initiative. 

“You’ve always gone above and beyond. Not because you had to, but because caring for others is simply who you are,” Sanborn said. “You see the good in every person and every child … you have reminded us all to slow down, appreciate one another, and find the good in each day.” 

Quinn said her years in education were defined by the joy she found in the work.

“I stayed because I fell in love with the job,” Quinn said. “It has brought me so much joy.” 

The ceremony concluded with a recognition of Moore, who is retiring after 36 (and a half) years in the district. Sanborn called her a “living legend,” noting that she had taught through multiple school consolidations, classroom relocations, and grade levels. 

“Allison spent every single one of those years dedicated to our Swampscott Public Schools community … she has truly seen it all and done it all,” Sanborn said. “Thank you for years of unwavering dedication. Thank you for bringing your sharp wit and daily laughs that lightened even our busiest days.” 

Moore said she leaves the district with a deep appreciation for the work and the people who made it meaningful.

“I truly feel just so lucky,” Moore said. “Every day, even on the hard days, I’ve looked forward to going to work. It’s been my privilege.”