Posted April 08, 2026 in Life at Lawrence
Editor’s Note: This interview took place in early March, shortly before Penny officially retired at the end of the month.
After a decade of dedicated service, our Lower School Facility Manager, Penny, officially retired at the end of March. For 10 years, "Miss Penny" has been a constant, caring presence on our campus, working tirelessly to ensure our school remained a safe, welcoming, and beautiful place for our students to learn and grow.
While much of Penny’s work happened behind the scenes, her impact was felt by everyone who walked through our doors. As a parent and grandparent herself, she deeply understood our mission and cared for our students as if they were her own. We sat down with Penny to reflect on her journey at Lawrence and what she’s looking forward to in this next chapter.
Q: What is the first thing you’re going to do on your first day of retirement?
Penny: I’m definitely not going to wake up at four in the morning! When I do wake up—besides letting the dog out and taking care of my chickens—I want to stay in my pajamas and bake some cookies. I’m going to sit down with a nice hot cup of coffee and just relax.
Q: Do you have any immediate trips on the books?
Penny: My husband and I have talked about Poland and Switzerland this fall, but he might surprise me with a road trip before then. We might just get in the car and drive; the Grand Canyon is a destination I’ve never seen before, so we may do that this summer. Then, at the end of September, I’m planning a weekend trip with my siblings to either Memphis or Arizona. We are looking forward to finally seeing things we’ve never seen before.
Q: What has been the best part of your job at Lawrence?
Penny: The kids. Like any job, you work because you get paid—but I truly love this job because of the students. I’ve had different jobs before, but I can honestly say this is the only place I’ve ever worked where I am truly going to miss the people. The values Lawrence holds, the integrity, and the pride I’ve felt being a part of this school; it’s just been incredible.
Q: What will you miss most about the school?
Penny: Of course the students, but I have to add the staff in there, too. I’m going to miss the feeling of looking forward to coming to work. I’ve often felt so moved by this community. I’m a maintenance person, and we have so many talented, high-skilled staff members here—yet I have always been made to feel so appreciated, so loved, and such a vital part of everything. I am truly going to miss that feeling of belonging.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Penny: I just want to thank the staff and the children for the love and support. Being valued in this way is unlike anything else. What this school does for these children’s futures is so important to me—as a mom and a grandmother. I have a son who is on the spectrum, and 40 years ago, a place like Lawrence wasn't available for him. It means the world to me to know that kids today have these opportunities and everything Lawrence has to offer.