We close out the 2025-2026 school year by saying thank you and farewell to seven remarkable educators whose dedication has shaped the Ville for years.
The Somerville Public Schools community gathered at a recent Board of Education meeting to recognize seven retiring educators whose collective service spans more than 150 years. Each was celebrated for the lasting impact they have made on students, colleagues, and the district as a whole.
Jennifer Russo taught Spanish at Somerville High School, joining the district in 2016 after teaching K–8 Spanish in the Clinton public schools and returning in 2019 following a brief departure. Throughout her tenure she was known above all for her kindness, serving as a steady and calming presence and a trusted mentor to colleagues and students. She understood that making learning enjoyable can leave a lasting impact.
Sally Booth spent a distinguished career at Somerville Middle School, where she was admired for an honest and unwavering commitment to teaching and learning. She consistently advocated for her students rather than following passing trends, and contributed beyond the classroom through her work with the SMS cross country team. She enters retirement looking forward to time on her bike and with her grandchildren.
Lisa Ehlbeck served the district for 29 years, beginning in 1987 as a one-to-one instructional assistant. Over nearly three decades she worked across a range of special education settings — including the PSD class at SMS, self-contained classes at SHS, and the PSABA and LLD classes at Vanderveer — devoting her career to the students who needed her most. Colleagues described her impact in terms of "quiet miracles," delivered each day with grace, patience, and unwavering dedication.
Charlene Takvic spent 25 years as an educator, touching the lives of more than 9,000 students at Vanderveer. She taught third grade and pioneered the district's technology and coding curriculum, and is a published author, conference presenter, and recipient of the Governor's Teacher Recognition Award. She is proudest of the message she shared with every student who doubted themselves: that with persistence, you can do anything.
Catherine Sullivan was a cornerstone of Somerville schools for 25 years, with a career defined by her work with the district's youngest learners as she moved from special education to preschool. She was known for the organization and foresight that allowed her teaching partners and the broader team to focus entirely on instruction.
Robert Reavey was celebrated for his remarkable ability to connect with people. He knew every student's name and something meaningful about each of them, and colleagues recalled his patience in moments that mattered most — including sitting with an overwhelmed student until the child left smiling. He served as a positive role model who brought humor, empathy, and school spirit to his work.
The district extends its deepest gratitude to all seven retirees and wishes them health, happiness, and fulfillment in the years ahead.
