By Debbie Adams
Several teachers and staff members are retiring from Roanoke County Public Schools in the
Vinton area at the end of this school year. They will be sorely missed by students, fellow
teachers, and their administrators.
Ben Watts is retiring from William Byrd Middle School where he teaches social studies. He did
his student teaching at WBMS in 1995, followed by three years in Craig County. He then
returned to William Byrd Middle where he has spent the last 27 years, mostly in seventh grade
teaching US History.
“I will miss the camaraderie with the staff and the relationships developed with the students,”
said Watts. “I am looking forward to a new chapter, perhaps traveling, working around my
house, playing golf and doing things that are hard to do while working. I will likely work part-
time and will continue to substitute. I will always cherish my days at WBMS and will miss
certain aspects of teaching, but I am willing to give this retirement thing a try!”
Tracy Broughman is retiring from Mount Pleasant Elementary.
“After 28 wonderful years of teaching at Mount Pleasant Elementary – four in kindergarten and
24 in first grade – I’m retiring with a heart full of gratitude,” Broughman said. “For 23 of those
years, I taught in the same classroom, a space that became a second home filled with laughter,
learning, and countless memories.
“I’ve loved dancing with my students, hatching chicks each spring, and raising monarch
butterflies in the fall. I’ll deeply miss the sweet smiles with missing teeth, the adorable lisps from
freshly lost ones, the joyful laughter during funny classroom videos, and the incredible pride I’ve
felt watching my students learn and grow. It has been an honor and a joy to be part of so many
young lives.”
Robin Ard is retiring from W.E. Cundiff Elementary where she teaches second grade.
“I began my career at Mount Pleasant Elementary as an instructional assistant for two years in
2002,” Ard said. “I’ve taught first and second grade as a classroom teacher for 21 years at
Cundiff.
“I will miss the lifelong friends I have made at Cundiff plus the teamwork we have at our
school. I’ll always remember developing relationships with so many children and being a part of
their education, plus watching them become hard working adults reaching their lifetime goals.
“I plan to take time off to travel, rest and get into new adventures in the future.”
Vicki Henschel is also retiring from W.E. Cundiff from her position as an instructional assistant.
She spent two years at Mount Pleasant Elementary, and then 18 years at Cundiff.
“I’m planning on spending more time with my grandchildren,” Henschel says. “My third
grandchild is due in mid-August. I also plan to substitute at WEC.”
Melissa Peroulas has taught for 20 years at Bonsack Elementary with Roanoke County Schools.
“I had 11 years of service in a neighboring district, prior to coming to Bonsack. I have taught
kindergarten, second, and third grades, with the majority being in kindergarten.
“Once retired, I plan to substitute, travel, and enjoy spending more time with family.
“I will miss my students and co-workers but look forward to working with them again when I
substitute. I am truly grateful for the many blessings received over the years as an educator,
especially my time as a Bonsack Bobcat!”
Look for more RCPS retirees in the May 22 Vinton Messenger.
