Peggy Anderson

I attended Coolidge for kindergarten and then I returned and completed my cadette teaching there. Later, I completed student teaching there as a student at the university of Michigan.I taught there 30 years. Being a teacher for so long,I switched around, I enjoyed doing different things. Coolidge was life affirming, fun, and productive. I loved being a teacher. It was life changing because I felt that I was doing something important. It was more than a job. We worked together really well. Things were done, and later (15 years) they would attend conferences and hear about things they had already been doing as ititwas new. Favorite Principal was Jim Bracy, he was wonderful to work for. He saw himself as someone who could help everyone do their best as opposed to telling everyone what to do.I would always arrive early, able to make friendships with other teachers. Always found time to bond with other teachers.I enjoyed making a difference in the lives of students.I recall putting on a big production, end of the year musical. Parents would make costumes, and everyone just had a good time.In a way, it was time [for Coolidge to close]. The building itself, was problematic. Experienced a tremendous number of leaks. Joked around with students saying, “you're getting a free shower.” Admin would acknowledge it, but no one ever fixed them.It was great! I’m very glad. I think Glenn and Essence are great! Really glad they decided to do that.