MASTER TEACHER: BERNICE RODGERS (1976-2000)
Let’s talk about the power behind the throne -- Bernice Rodgers. For twenty-four years, Mrs. Rodgers, always a purveyor of good cheer and candy, assumed the role of the Argus-eyed custodian/protector of THE most important person on the campus: the Head of School. When John Comfort was interim Head of School, he reminded all of us that Bernice would always make him look good -- she did. In fact, she did that for many Heads of School. All her Heads of School deeply appreciated this remarkable woman.
Here are some thoughts from Mike Teitelman on dear Bernice:
“An English philosopher once wrote that when love and skill are combined together, one should expect a masterpiece. That description best describes Bernice Rodgers’s years of devotion to Graland Country Day School. Described by all who knew her as a tireless worker and a loyal friend, Bernice. . . always had a moment to give encouragement to a colleague, a hug for a child, or a sunny word to anyone who crossed her path. In a schoolhouse whose heritage includes the remarkable Chester Preisser, John Comfort, Nancy Priest, and Ruth Gorham, I had the good fortune to hire Bernice. It remains to this day one of the things of which I am most proud in my professional career.”
I must add John Thomas's words as well:
I have watched in awe as Bernice Rodgers has dealt with parents, students, teachers, and trustees in infinitely different situations, all with a calm, reassuring, patient manner. When I think of Bernice, I think of the word grace. She is the most remarkable person I know. Her style and approach put people instantly at ease. She never seems frustrated or worried, regardless of the storm that may be blowing around her. She loves Graland, and it shows. When she walks into my office and quietly closes the door, I know to stop doing whatever I am working on and listen. It is time for me to learn. Thank heavens and Mike Teitelman that Bernice is here with us."
I must add John Thomas's words as well:
I have watched in awe as Bernice Rodgers has dealt with parents, students, teachers, and trustees in infinitely different situations, all with a calm, reassuring, patient manner. When I think of Bernice, I think of the word grace. She is the most remarkable person I know. Her style and approach put people instantly at ease. She never seems frustrated or worried, regardless of the storm that may be blowing around her. She loves Graland, and it shows. When she walks into my office and quietly closes the door, I know to stop doing whatever I am working on and listen. It is time for me to learn. Thank heavens and Mike Teitelman that Bernice is here with us."
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
