By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

After 17 years as O’Loughlin Elementary principal, Nancy Harman pictures herself sitting down this summer looking back on the “joyful days” that made her 40 years in education “blessed.”

Harman was honored Tuesday at a retirement reception at the school.

“I’m walking away knowing  (students and staff) are going to be fine and knowing, in many ways, I have made a bit of a difference for children and the people I have worked with,” she said. “I’m just really trying to savor every moment and be there to listen.”

Harman said while she is proud of the milestones and awards O’Loughlin has earned throughout the years, such as the National Title 1 Distinguished School Award in 2013, it is listening to her students that leaves her with the best memories.

“Some of my favorite memories are just standing outside and chatting with the kids as we waited for the crosswalk or lunchtime when they made me laugh out loud,” she said. “Just that bond with the kids or watching someone accomplish something when you know how hard it has been to get to that point and they make it.”

Harman said plan to spend her retirement days spending time with her family and friends and making new memories.

She said she and her husband, Robert, already are making plans — a  daughter’s wedding in June, a family vacation and celebrating 40 years of marriage.

Hays Middle School Assistant Principal Shannon Demel will replace Harman as O’Loughlin principal June 1.