Upsala math teacher retires after nearly 40 years in education

May 23, 2026 - 17:29

Making the decision to retire this year was extremely difficult for Renee Scholz. A high school math teacher in the Upsala School District, she simply loves her job and the students she works with every day. After nearly four decades in education, Scholz is finally stepping away from the classroom, leaving behind a legacy of numbers, patience, and dedication.

Scholz began her teaching career in 1985. Over the years, she has taught countless students the fundamentals of algebra, geometry, and calculus. She says the hardest part of leaving is knowing she will no longer see the lightbulb moments when a struggling student finally understands a difficult concept. For her, those small victories are what made the long hours worth it.

Colleagues describe her as a steady presence in the school. She was known for staying late to help students prepare for tests and for never giving up on those who fell behind. Many former students have reached out since her retirement was announced, sharing stories of how her patience changed their outlook on school.

Scholz plans to spend her retirement traveling with her husband and spending more time with her grandchildren. She admits she will miss the daily routine and the energy of the hallways. But after nearly 40 years, she feels it is time to let a new generation of teachers take over.