O’Loughlin’s longtime leader earns praise during Monday meeting

O’Loughlin Principal Nancy Harman receives a round of applause during Monday’s school board meeting. Harman officially announced her retirement at the meeting.

By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

USD 489 Superintendent Dean Katt thanked longtime teacher and O’Loughlin Elementary Principal Nancy Harman for her 34 years of service in education, her 28 years in the Hays school district and her 17 years as principal.

Harman formally announced her retirement at Monday’s school board meeting.

Katt named some of Harman’s many accomplishments as O’Loughlin’s leader.

“The Title I distinguished school, Blue Ribbon School, just one honor after another. … We thank you for what you have done for your staff and with your staff,” Katt said, as board members and the crowd offered applause.

What does Harman plan to do with her extra time?

USD board member Sarah Ranking hugs Harman after BOE meeting Monday. — USD board member Sarah Rankin hugs Harman after Monday’s meeting.

“I understand there is a whole world out there between 5 in the morning and 8 at night which I don’t often get to see because I’m usually at school,” Harman said with a smile. “So just going out there and experiencing new things and and some new challenges and spending time with my family. … I am very excited about that chance.”

Harman’s retirement will take effect June 1.