Sheila Kaldis first connected with Westbury Christian School as a parent, but it didn’t take long for her to join the school as a Wildcat employee. Over the past 35 years, Mrs. Kaldis has worked closely with our primary and elementary programs. She is often the first person many of our young Wildcats meet during the admissions process. Her presence has undeniably shaped the Lower School experience for countless students. Her contagious smile, patient spirit, and comforting hugs have made WCS a warm and welcoming place for students to learn and grow. We will miss her greatly as she steps into a new season of retirement. Mrs. Kaldis took the time to share her experience of working at WCS over the past 35 years.
What are some of your most cherished memories from your time at Westbury Christian School?
SK: Some of my most cherished memories include the privilege to see and be a part of the tremendous growth that WCS has experienced over the years. I was invited to be a part of the ceremonial groundbreaking crew to mark the construction of Mundy Hall. I was also honored to plan and be a part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open our brand-new preschool playground and the new Joan Partain Library. I also enjoyed being on the team that was responsible for WCS switching to school uniforms and choosing which items our students would wear.
What are you most proud of accomplishing during your years here?
SK: Initiating plans to add the Lower School Community Service initiative – Project Hug, The Houses Program, and The Social Emotional Program here.
What are you most grateful to God for during your time here?
SK: For helping me develop an empathetic heart toward parents and a compassionate heart toward the students. I pray that I have always shined my light brightly for Jesus to all who needed to see it.
What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
SK: I am most looking forward to not setting an alarm and traveling to England, Greece, and France in August/September. I also plan to read all of the books I’ve gathered over the years and creating an English garden.
Will you stay connected to the Westbury Christian School community in any way?
SK: Most definitely! I bleed Blue and Gold.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with current teachers or students?
SK: Every morning, ask God to help you prepare each of your students’ hearts, minds, and souls every day according to His will. Remember, every child has a story, be a positive part of their story.
Is there a Bible verse that has been especially meaningful to you throughout your career? Why?
SK: Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me) This is my favorite life verse and has helped me so often at work when I have had a difficult task to accomplish or had to have a difficult conversation with a parent. It has helped me many times to keep my calm when I am trying to calm a student who is angry or upset.
You’ve touched the lives of so many students. Is there a particular story of a student that stands out to you?
SK: Not a particular student, but I am always touched when students who started with us in our primary department and are now in high school tell me that they remember me giving them their admissions test and lots of hugs.
What will you miss most about working at this school?
SK: Working alongside such talented and dedicated individuals. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of a team that supports, encourages, loves, prays, and learns together. I am blessed that the decision to retire has been so difficult because I love the WCS community so much.
As you move on to this new chapter, what are your prayers for the school community?
SK: I pray for a spirit of unity and harmony as the board of trustees, administration, faculty, and staff work together toward the common goal of continually improving the spiritual, academic, and student activities experiences for every WCS student.