Terri Risch’s run as a phy-ed teacher, coach, and administrator in the Mishicot School District will be coming to a close effective June 30th.
The Mishicot native has announced her plans for retirement as Middle School Principal and High School Athletic Director.
“I’m going to wake up July 1st, pour myself a cup of coffee, and sit outside and enjoy not looking at a schedule and thinking okay I’ve gotta get this done and this done, contacting a referee for a game that day. Take time to enjoy life and from there making plans.”
Risch has worn a lot of hats during her 31 years of employment with the district, including high school and middle school A-D, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, as well as coaching volleyball, track, and freshman boys basketball.
Between Terri & her father, John, there has been a Risch in Mishicot schools for 52-years.
“I taught in Arizona after graduating from college.” And, when a position opened by her phy-ed teacher retiring, they reached out and said ‘what do you think about coming back?’ “I interviewed for the job as long as my dad was retiring. I didn’t want to have my dad as boss…thinking it would be tough on both of us. I took the job in phy-ed thinking I would be here a few years and here I am 31-years later staying there.”
All kidding aside, Risch said her dad has been a big influence on her.
“When I took over as athletic director I never thought I’d become a principal. Now, following in my dad’s footsteps this is special. He’s done so much for that community, that’s what I learned about how to give back. I’m like my dad…I bleed orange and black. My dad still attends games with me when he’s able. He’s a smart man and he’s helped me grow as a leader in the district.”
Terri can look back on plenty of team highlights during her career.
“I remember beating Denmark in volleyball and I had so many good athletes and that was probably the 1st highlight of my coaching career. There were so many. I look at boys basketball..the boys went to state and brought home a silver ball. Just recently the girls basketball team winning the gold at the state tournament. And, Dawn Shimek taking her team to state, bringing home the silver for softball.”
Risch also know it’s not about her accomplishments, but rather being a part of watching the kids grow into adults and become successful.
“It’s like you’re waking up after surgery and you look in the eyes of one of your former volleyball players and students and she’s your nurse. Those are the successes that I really look at. And I think about all our students and what they’re doing and hopefully they’re contributing, becoming leaders in our community and giving back.”
The outgoing educator wants to stay involved with the Lakeshore All Sports Hall of Fame, of which she is a member, and continue to serve the community with the Lions Club. Beyond that, Terri is sure she will be playing golf, volunteering, and staying active in retirement.
