This year, Southwestern proudly recognizes a remarkable group of retirees whose combined service to our district totals an extraordinary 251.75 years. As teachers, aides, support staff, supervisors, mentors, advisors, and champions for students, each has made a lasting impact on our school community. Their dedication, compassion, leadership, and commitment to excellence have helped shape the lives of countless students and enriched the experiences of colleagues and families alike. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their years of service and wish them happiness, good health, and many exciting adventures in retirement. Our high school retirees are listed below.

Beth Stockwell – 32 years

Since joining Southwestern as a Special Education Teacher in 1993, Beth Stockwell has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students through her dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping others succeed. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, she has served as a class advisor, mentor teacher, Transition Coordinator, and champion for programs that support students both in and out of the classroom.

Beth’s caring nature and fun-loving spirit have made her a trusted colleague and a favorite among students. Through initiatives such as the Coffee Cart program and the 222 Closet, she has created opportunities for students to build skills, confidence, and independence while ensuring they have access to essential resources. Her impact extends far beyond academics, and Southwestern is grateful for the many ways she has supported and uplifted our school community throughout her career. 

Jenny Brown – 30 years

Since joining Southwestern as an Art Teacher in 1996, Jenny Brown has inspired countless students to explore their creativity, develop their artistic talents, and express themselves through the arts. Throughout her career, she has taught a wide range of high school art courses, including Advanced Placement Art, challenging and encouraging students to reach their full potential.

A creative leader both inside and outside the classroom, Jenny has served as Art Department Chair, Art Club Advisor, and Art Director for countless school musical productions. She also played a key role in developing Southwestern’s Individual Arts Assessment Pathway, expanding opportunities for students to showcase their artistic achievements. As an active member of the New York State Art Teachers Association, she has remained committed to excellence in arts education and advocacy. Her passion, creativity, and dedication have left a lasting mark on Southwestern and the many students whose lives she has enriched through the arts.

Junie Eimiller – 22.75 years

Since joining Southwestern in 1999 as a High School English Teacher, Junie Eimiller has inspired students through her passion for literature, writing, and learning. Throughout her career, she has gone beyond the classroom to support students in a variety of ways, serving as Yearbook Advisor and Newspaper Advisor for the Trojan Times, helping students develop their voices, creativity, and communication skills.

Throughout her career, Junie has demonstrated remarkable strength, grace, and resilience, earning the respect and admiration of students and colleagues alike. Her impact on students and colleagues will be long remembered, and we wish her all the best in her retirement.

Cheryl Ellis – 10 years

Since joining Southwestern in 2015 as a Cleaner, Cheryl Ellis has been a dependable and hardworking member of the district team, helping to maintain safe, welcoming, and well-cared-for facilities for students, staff, and visitors. In recognition of her dedication and leadership, she was promoted to Working Supervisor in 2023, a role in which she continued to serve the district with professionalism and pride.

Known for her strong work ethic and friendly demeanor, Cheryl has been a valued colleague and a familiar face throughout the district. Although she officially retired on February 21, 2026, members of the Southwestern community can still see her from time to time as a substitute cleaner. We are grateful for her years of service and continued support, and we wish her all the best in her retirement.