From mathematics to athletics, there wasn't much that Karen Huwe couldn't teach to students at the Waitsburg School District. Friends, coworkers and family gathered over the weekend as Huwe celebrated a well-earned retirement.

Huwe began working for the district in 1983, teaching physical education and math, and has since held many different titles; high and middle school volleyball, track and softball coach for more than 100 teams over the years. Math teacher, special education teacher, paraprofessional. She worked in food services as the clerk for a period of time, checking in on kids as they waited in the breakfast and lunch lines.

"There is a great staff in the Waitsburg School District, there is no doubt about that," Huwe said. "Great kids, and great memories."

One of her favorite memories, Huwe said, was taking the volleyball team to State in 1988, making history as one of the only volleyball teams to make the finals.

"Karen is pretty incredible," said Waitsburg School District Superintendent Mark Pickel. "To stay with a district for 38 years, and to love what she does as much as she did, says a lot about her character, and who she is as a person. She will be missed, but I wish her the best in this next chapter."

For now, Huwe said she is simply going to enjoy her retirement, focusing on home projects and ongoing community volunteerism, staying active with the Friends of the Weller Public Library, American Legion Auxiliary, Relay for Life, and other community organizations. When the time comes, she says she looks forward to being able to travel once the COVID-19 pandemic has quieted.