For Alayna Shipley, Lyons Central School District has always been home.
A 1989 Lyons graduate, Shipley returned to her alma mater in 1993 when she was hired as a part-time speech therapist. After earning a master’s degree in Reading from SUNY Oswego, she transitioned into a reading teacher role in 2001, beginning a career that would span 33 years and impact generations of students.
“I knew I wanted to be a teacher because of the teachers who inspired me here in Lyons,” Shipley said. “When the opportunity came to return, it felt like it was meant to be.”
Over the course of her career, Shipley worked with students from kindergarten through high school, helping them build skills, confidence, and a love of learning. She said one of the most rewarding aspects of the profession was the opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives.
“I want to make a difference. You never know when a small interaction might change someone’s day,” she said. “Being able to help students through difficult moments is something I’ll always cherish.”
As she prepares for retirement, Shipley is looking forward to new opportunities, including part-time work and volunteer service with organizations such as the Rose Free Library and the Humane Society. She also plans to spend more time with family, camping, hiking, and visiting national parks across the country.
Although excited for the future, Shipley said she will miss the daily interactions with students and colleagues. Her advice to future educators is to rely on collaboration and remain committed to professional growth.
“Don’t try to do it alone,” she said. “Collaborate, keep learning, and never stop growing.”
After 33 years of service, Lyons Central School District thanked Shipley for her dedication, compassion, and lasting impact on generations of Lyons students. District officials said her legacy will continue to be felt in the many lives she helped shape throughout her career.
