SYRACUSE — After 37 years of service as a basketball coach, teacher and administrator, Wawasee High School Assistant Principal John Snyder has announced his retirement, closing a chapter in Indiana public education.
Throughout his career, Snyder served in various roles at Whitley County Consolidated Schools, Columbia City; Warsaw Community High School; Whitko Jr./Sr. High School, South Whitley; and most recently, Wawasee High School, Syracuse. His legacy is one of steady leadership, a deep commitment to school improvement and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student, according to a news release from Wawasee.
“Looking back, I’m most proud of the progress we made in each school I had the privilege to serve,” said Snyder. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredibly talented and caring teachers, and to witness countless students accomplish amazing things.”
Snyder’s career has been rooted in relationships. “I’ll miss working with extraordinary educators who shared a common vision,” he said. “But most of all, I’ll miss the kids — the conversations, the celebrations and the laughs. Those moments have been the heart of my career.”
As he turns the page, Snyder is looking forward to time with his family. He and his wife, Reisa — a retired teacher and professor — plan to travel and check off a few bucket list items, including visiting every Major League Baseball stadium. Above all, he looks forward to supporting his grandchildren, Holden and Hadley, in all their endeavors.
When asked what it has meant to be a Warrior, Snyder said, “I have loved my time at Wawasee and I’m grateful to finish my career here. This is a special place. I hope our community knows how deeply I cared for their children — that I tried my best to encourage them, to let them know I believed in them, and, hopefully, empowered them to pursue their dreams.”