This year we will say goodbye to two teachers who have become staples of campus life: Ms. Jessie Ryan and Mr. John Robb. Mr. Robb, the Mathematics Teacher, has been teaching high school math for 37 years and spent 20 of those years at FSHA. Ms. Jessie, VAPA/Dance Teacher, has been working on the Hill for six years now but has been in the dance world for 22 years.
As they move on to new chapters in their lives, their legacy at Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy will inspire and shape the lives of those they’ve had as students.
A passionate practitioner of the visual and performing arts, Ms. Jessie brought together beautiful dance concerts that the FSHA community enjoyed watching and dancers loved performing in. Likewise, Mr. Robb was dedicated to teaching students not only math but also pickleball and sharing his love for popcorn.
And sports. Whether it’s cheering them on at sporting events or attending extracurricular activities. Mr. Robb has always been there for his students.
“Teaching math and working with my colleagues has been amazing, but seeing the FSHA students excel outside of the classroom has always been a major highlight. Watching our sports teams, seeing the art shows and going to the plays and dance concerts,” Mr.Robb said. “Over the 20 years, I believe I have only missed a total of four or five shows.”
After years of dedicated service, Mr. Robb plans to take some well-deserved time for himself. During his retirement, he plans to focus on things that he loves to do.
“I plan to spend lots of time with family and friends and of course, play either pickleball, golf, or both most days,” Mr. Robb said.
Ms. Jessie’s favorite part about teaching on the Hill was watching how far students come from freshman to senior year. Students not only grow physically over four years but grow mentally and flourish into strong and confident women.
“My favorite part of teaching here has been watching the students grow up. I’m very lucky to have the same students for four years and I get to watch their confidence grow. Dance teaches us so much about our bodies and it’s so rewarding to see students finding themselves and feeling comfort in their own skin,” Ms.Jessie said.
Not only does Ms. Jessie teach her students about dance, art, and the history of dance, but she also learns from her students about the new generation of change and believes in standing up for what she believes is right.
“My students have taught me that it’s important to stick up for what you believe in, even when you are going to ruffle some feathers,” Ms. Jessie said. “This generation cares about change, and that has made me want to fight for them.”
Unlike Mr. Robb, who is retiring, Ms. Jessie is throwing herself into a new job and is planning on switching careers to the world of wine.
“I’m very excited. The job includes working from home, going out for fancy food, and traveling to Europe” Ms. Ryan said.
The FSHA community would like to thank Mr. Robb and Ms. Jessie for all that they have done for our Tologs and school community. Time after time, they have put in the hard work and effort to watch Tologs thrive in and out of the classroom. As we Tologs prepare to say goodbye to Ms. Jessie Ryan and Mr. John Robb, we wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors and hope they know the lasting mark that they have left on Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy.
