By Tanvi Verma

Staff Writer

Mrs. Carol Fernsten-Lyman is retiring from Westford Academy after 17 years as a Special Education teacher.You’ve probably seen her around the Guidance hallway before, or maybe you’ve had the pleasure of being in one of her classes. She’s been hugely influential to new teachers in her department.

“This is a huge loss for the department, she’s been here for such a long time. She’s a role model and…A good resource for the newer staff to go to…She’s a very knowledgeable and dedicated employee here,” said Patricia Demins, a fellow colleague and friend of Lyman.

As a special education teacher, Mrs. Lyman has has a lot of experience with the kids here at WA.She’s grown close with the staff having taught here for 17 years. She is very aware, though, of what she’s leaving behind in terms of the impact that she’s had on students.

“I’ve taught special education for most of my career. My best experience was with the special needs students, watching them make progress and move onto bigger and better things in their lives” said Lyman.

When asked about why she decided to teach Special Education instead of a traditional subject like English or Math, Lyman responded, “Well, when I was a kid, I used to be the person who would support others…There were kids with learning problems in the classroom and I used to be drawn to those kids and help them in any way I could. It just seemed like a natural progression once I got to college.”

She’s lived here in Westford for 32 years, and having been a teacher here for 17 of them; she’s noticed a lot of changes in the kids here at WA.

“I think the culture’s changed a lot…I think I look at this group of kids as much more sphisticated and in-the know. And that change has taken place in a way that you wouldn’t notice at first. Kids have changed a lot.”

She’s not taking a break yet, though, Mrs. Lyman intends on traveling and studying realty and getting her realty license. She’s also looking forward to spending time with her grandchildren. As for the far future, she’s not entirely sure as to what her plans are. She’s sure that she will miss her peers greatly, though.

“I think I’m going to miss the people…It’s like a big family  here.” said  Lyman.