When you walk into the Middle School you are entering a friendly and warm atmosphere. Much of this inviting environment is due to the faces that greet you as you walk in, including Ms. Linda Kretchmar, Administrative Asst. to the Director of the Middle.  She is the person seventh and eighth graders go to with questions, concerns, a kind smile, or a “good morning.” Ms. Kretchmar is supportive of the students, and current and past middle schoolers alike know her for her unusually friendly and helpful manner. I recently sat down with her to discuss her job and life outside Williston.

Ruby McElhone Yates: What does your job entail?

Ms. Kretchmar: I am responsible for providing all aspects of support services for the Director of the Middle School, [Ms. Jen Fulcher], faculty, parents, and students at the seventh and eighth grade level. I have taught the Eighth Grade Wellness Program at the Middle School.

RMY: What is your favorite part of your job?

Ms. K: My favorite part of my job is being a part of an amazing administrative team. I am very happy coming to work every day due to the hard working individuals I have the pleasure of working with. The bonus part of my job are all of the connections I have made with the numerous students who have come through the middle school doors. I have wonderful students that I am able to watch grow into young adults.

RMY: Where did you grow up?

Ms. K: I have lived my entire life in Easthampton, Massachusetts. My husband and I were able to purchase the home that I grew up in and now my children are creating memories in the same home.

RMY: Who were your role models as a child?

Ms. K: My family were and still are my role models. I have a mother and father that were very hard working individuals that taught me to love unconditionally. I also have two sisters that are my best friends today.

RMY: What are you most proud of?

Ms. K My children…Darrell Kretchmar, who is 23 and in the Air National Guard and Devin Kretchmar, who is 20 years old. They have taught me about life in so many different ways. I could not be more proud of the young men they are today. [I am also very proud of] earning my Master’s Degree in Higher Education while working full time at Williston and keeping a 4.0 GPA the entire time.

RMY: What have you learned from working in a Middle School?

Ms. K: So many things! One of the things that is most important to me is the fact that all students learn differently. They need support, guidance, and love from the adults in their lives and most of all understanding of who they are as young adults. Middle School students have so much to offer if we take the time to stop and listen you would be amazed at what you could learn.

RMY: Was there a particular person who influenced your life? How?

Ms. K: My mom, Josephine Mitchell. She taught me that you can work hard, have a career, and a wonderful family all at the same time!

RMY: Anything else you would like to add?

Ms. K: I really do believe I have the best job at Williston. I work with the best co-workers and I spend all day with seventh and eighth graders. I am very blessed to be in a position that I love so much.