Longtime Centralia Teacher Brenda Harrison to Retire

By: Griffin Anderson, Contributing Writer

After 28 years in education, including 27 years with the Centralia R-VI School District, Mrs. Brenda Harrison is retiring at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. ​

Harrison began her career in Clark, Missouri, where she taught six first-grade students during her first year. The next year, she began teaching fifth-grade in Centralia. She currently teaches sixth-grade science at Chester Boren Middle School.

Harrison reflected on her career. “There are so many good memories! Teaching in a middle school provides endless opportunities for a good time and great memories,” she said. “Young people are natural scientists, so those memories of their natural curiosity will stay with me for a lifetime.” 

Harrison shared what she will miss about teaching.

“I will definitely miss the kids the most. I was lucky enough to teach the very best of students over the years. My co-workers have become lifelong friends and although I’m sure we will keep in touch, I will miss working with them,” said Harrison. 

Retirement will allow Harrison to spend more time with her family, especially her granddaughter. She is married to Don Harrison. She has two sons, Trenton and Dylan; a daughter-in-law, Morgan; and a granddaughter, Peyton. She also has two step-children, Lainy and Lijah.

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