We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
Scott Friede, Judy Whitney and Rick Linquist are retiring from the Chinook Schools system. The three had a combined 80 years of teaching at Chinook schools. They hold up a celebratory cake inscribed with "Good Luck in Your Future Endeavors." A reception was held on the last day of school for the three.
In what Chinook Schools Superintendent Darrin Hannam described as an "informal sendoff" three longtime teachers, two from the high school and one from Meadowlark Elementary, were recognized for their combined 80 years of teaching in the district. Hannam, completing his first year as school superintendent, said, "I'm new to this part of the traditions for honoring retirees in Chinook but wanted to make sure these three knew how much their service was appreciated by our district and students."
In his remarks Hannam noted, "One thing I've noticed in my first year here is that lots of former students come back to work in the school system. I want these three retirees to know that their legacy will live on." He pointed out that retiree Rick Linquist, a math teacher at the high school, was being replaced by his son, Andrew. One of the guests quipped, "We can refer to this change as an upgrade to 'Linquist 2.0.'" That brought an appreciative laugh from the well-wishers gathered for the sendoff. The three being honored, in order of years of service, were introduced.
Judy Whitley, Meadowlark Elementary
Whitley, commenting on the observation by the superintendent, said, "It does warm my heart to see former students come back and join the faculty and staff as colleagues." Nodding to Scott Friede, who is also retiring, she said, "Scott, when I came to Chinook you were still in high school and I was one of your track coaches." Friede smiled and acknowledged that he remembered that time.
Whitley said during retirement she and her husband, Tim, will spend more time visiting relatives in Vermont, where they both grew up and still have family connections. The Whitley's also raise Springer Spaniels and that will require their presence in Chinook when not traveling. Whitley taught 36 years in Chinook and two years, prior, in Dutton. The couple have grown children in Montana. A son-in-law, Kendall Harwood, is a teacher at Meadowlark.
Scott Friede, Chinook High
Scott Friede is a native of the area and graduated from Chinook High. He taught for 23 years at CHS. Before coming back to Chinook he taught five years in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He said he will officially retire in December, 2016, after serving as head football coach for the upcoming fall season.
Friede's wife, Fay, is a counselor at Chinook High. Along with their children Cade, Morgan and Shane, the Friede's operate North Fork Angus, a cattle operation.
Rick Linquist, Chinook High
Rick Linquist grew up in the Scobie and taught math for 21 years at the high school. He's headed to Denver. He said of Denver, "I'll be doing something out there, just not sure what at this point." Mr. Hannam noted earlier that Andrew Linquist, Rick's son, would be teaching math, like his father, and in the same classroom. One of the guests pointed out, "The sign on the door won't have to be changed and Rick won't even have to clean up his classroom as his son will be moving in."
The retirement event was low key and it was a great time of sharing stories with colleagues and friends about the retirees' 80 years at Chinook. The "Journal" congratulates the three and, like the superintendent, thanks them for their service to the district, the students and the community. They have each created a legacy that already is being continued.
