A Final Good-Bye

Ms. Griswold was recognized by her peers for her caring and compassionate presence. Always meeting students where they are in their journey for the past 15 years, she was a fixture on many Kairos retreats, a leader in several clubs and a pioneer for the Catholic Gay-Straight Alliance at BC High. In her touching speech, she reminded the students to, “Go out and shake things up, be Ignatian revolutionaries and ‘Go forth and set the world on fire.’” Ms. Griswold is looking forward to spending more time with her granddaughter and family in retirement.

Also being honored was Math Teacher and Track Coach, Mr. John Normant. Introduced by Principal Hughes, “For 36 years he has been a math teacher here at BC High and for nearly 50 years a track coach, an unparalleled mark in school history that most likely will never be broken.” Mr. Hughes told the audience that, “You and the half century of young men before you, are better for knowing him…a true gentleman.” When the applause died down, Coach Normant answered a question he is often asked “How he could do what he did for the past 50 years?” His answer was simple, “You make it happen! From watching the C student in my pre-calculus course go on to crush the AP exam, to watching a high jumper progress from 5’7” to 6’4”, to observing the genuine compassion shown in the St. Louis Project, to seeing the pride of accomplishment shown by a student who overcame challenging obstacles as he accepts his diploma at graduation. You make this all possible.” Coach Normant reminded the audience of just how special the BC High community is as he gave a final plug for his beloved sport, “Remember to sign up for track and field next year. Go Eagles!”

Ms. Griswold and Mr. Normant will be deeply missed, but we wish them all the best in their extended summer vacation.