Dear Argyle Elementary School Families,

It is with mixed emotions that I write to you today to share that after 38 years in education, with 27 of those years dedicated to Argyle Elementary School, I have decided to retire effective July 1, 2025.

My connection to Argyle runs deep. Many of you may not know that I was once a student in these very halls. I sat in Mrs. Stoner's sixth-grade classroom, never imagining that years later I would return as a teacher in that exact same classroom, and eventually serve as your principal. When I accepted my first teaching position here, I was stepping into the role Mrs. Mae Stoner was retiring from. While preparing the classroom for my first year, I discovered something remarkable in Mae's closet – a wooden hanger with my childhood name "Dawn McCoy" written in black marker, the very one I had brought to school as her student years before. At that moment, I knew Argyle School was exactly where I was meant to be.

Throughout my time at Argyle, I have been blessed to watch thousands of children grow, learn, and discover their potential. I've witnessed kindergarteners master their first words and watched sixth graders confidently step into middle school. I've had the honor of working alongside dedicated educators who pour their hearts into their classrooms every day. Most special of all, I've now had the privilege of serving the children of my former students—a true testament to the generational impact of our small school family.

The connections we've built together—celebrating student achievements, supporting each other through challenges, and creating lasting traditions—have been the greatest reward of my career. The trust you've placed in me to guide your children's educational journey has been an honor I've never taken lightly.

While this decision brings many emotions, I know the time is right to begin the next chapter of my life. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition over the next few months and will be working closely with the administration to continue our hard work. The memories we've created and the relationships we've built will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for welcoming me into your families' lives and for allowing me to be part of your children's educational journey.

Argyle Elementary School is more than just a building—it's a community that has shaped who I am as an educator and as a person. While I may be retiring from my position, I will always remain a proud member of the ACS family.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Dawn M. Wood
Elementary Principal
Argyle Central School