Teachers are often said to be the backbone of society because they shape young minds, but more often than not they become so much more to learners than just educators.
For Dr Sharon Townsend, a teacher for 40 years, teaching has taught her so many life lessons.
“In the 26 years I’ve been at Merryvale Special School specifically, I have learned so much about humility and just having a deep sense of appreciation for life. You know, we often think we have so many problems, but then you have an interaction with these children who have so many challenges that hinder everyday life sometimes, but they meet each day with such vigour and gratitude. It’s a life-changing experience to just be around them,” said Townsend.
Almost three decades ago Townsend drove past Merryvale Special School, and after seeing the children playing outside, she was moved to join the school – and has not looked back since.
“The Merryvale family is a group of people who not only love these children, but are committed to making a difference in their lives, and set them up for a bright, comfortable future,” she said.
“Merryvale shares skills, tips and information with the parents of the children, as well as other special schools. That’s what I admire the most; we don’t just keep our knowledge to ourselves, but share it even with parents of special needs children from other schools, because our concern is the children, all children,” the principal continued.
August was the last month of Townsend’s service to the school, as she is retiring, and she said that this is a bittersweet moment for her.
“I’m happy to be retiring after many years in service, but I’ll miss those kids so much, as well as the entire Merryvale family. I am comforted by knowing that the school will be left in really safe, caring hands,” she said.
A teacher at Merryvale, Shannon Bekker, said that there are many things she will miss about Townsend, but her commitment would be missed most.
“She was a very involved principal, not one of those who sit in their office, and that’s it. She knew everything that was happening with the kids and teachers, and she loves those kids so much, you can see it. Being a principal at a special school is not easy, but she did it with so much grace,” she said.
Although she’s proud of how far the school has come, Townsend still feels more can be done by society, institutions of higher learning and the government, to better accommodate special needs children and young adults.
“Society needs to be more involved in these kids’ lives to accommodate their growth. Most of these children are multi-disabled and severely intellectually challenged, which renders them vulnerable. They end up being abused and used for wrongdoing,” said Townsend.
She hopes more will be done to protect special needs children, and restore their dignity.
Up next for the retiree, “is as little as possible. I will be in a more rural area and farming vegetables, just becoming more self-sufficient.
“My husband also made sure I won’t waste away in front of the television,” Townsend laughed before saying all her goodbyes to her Merryvale family.
