WESTPHALIA  — Last Wednesday, Fatima school board members approved Superintendent Chuck Woody’s retirement. Board President Suzanne Massman read his letter aloud.

“Dear Board of Education, staff, students and community of Fatima,” Woody wrote, “After 29 years in education, the last 22 being spent here at Fatima, I’m officially announcing my retirement, effective June 30, 2025. I will say that one of my greatest decisions of my life was to pack up my family and move to Fatima. I was welcomed with open arms and given an opportunity to grow as a teacher and coach, and then, continue that growth as an administrator.

“I have always said this has never been about me, and I truly, truly believe that,” Woody’s letter continues. “Much has been accomplished at Fatima through the years, and that is a testament to our community. Currently, we are in the middle of a very big project that will be nearly complete when I retire, and that is something I really wanted to see get done before my time was done here. Before I am gone, plans will be set for the demolition of the elementary portion we will be tearing down, renovation of the existing high school for elementary use, as well as preparation for the playground area where the trailers sit. This will help in the transition for the new superintendent as that person takes over next July.

“There are so many individuals that I would like to thank, but I am afraid of leaving someone out,” the letter continues. “I will say that no school can function properly without a dedicated staff, and I have been blessed to work with some of the very best. The friendships that I have made over the years are priceless, and that is one of the hardest things to walk away from, especially sitting on the front porch most mornings with (Marc) Bridges.

“In closing, I also want to thank the Fatima community as a whole,” Woody concluded in his letter. “This place is very special, and Fatima pride runs deep. Thanks again for taking a chance on an old Maries County boy years ago. I will help in a transition for the new superintendent in any way possible. I will only be a couple of miles and a phone call away, and once a Comet, always a Comet. With sincere gratitude, Chuck Woody.”

Woody has been Fatima’s superintendent for 10 years, following eight years as high school principal and four years teaching high school History.

After some discussion about options, the board voted to contact the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA) to begin the search for Woody’s replacement.

The board also accepted Debby Muenks’ retirement, effective at the end of this school year. She has been a Special Education Teacher for 11 years.

Board members also accepted Custodian Chris Massman’s resignation, and approved hiring Timothy (Tim) Bexten as custodian and Dunja Wieberg as a part-time Title I teacher for St. Thomas Catholic School, and the addition of four substitute teachers.

Additional information from this meeting will be covered in future articles.

Editor’s Note: Chuck Woody has been an exemplary teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. His straightforward approach and level-headed guidance have helped maintain Fatima’s excellence. Chuck’s kindness, devotion to students and staff, and dedication to education will be missed.