After 24 years of dedication to Hamilton Community Schools, English teacher Katie Jarvis is closing one chapter and preparing to begin the next. Jarvis, who currently teaches AP Literature, Senior English, and Yearbook at Hamilton High School, announced her retirement at the end of the 2024-25 school year.
“I’ve got mixed emotions,” Jarvis shared with a warm smile. “I’m sad to leave the kids and my colleagues, but I’m also excited about what doors might open. I’m definitely looking forward to no more grading on weekends or late-night planning!”
Jarvis began her career in the district as a middle school English teacher, spending 13 years guiding 8th graders before moving up to the high school. Over the years, she became known not just for her passion for literature and writing, but also for the way she challenged her students to think deeply and see the world from new perspectives.
“The literature we read gives us a peek into humanity,” she said. “It helps us understand someone who might be different from us—it’s a better way to understand the world.”
Before teaching, Jarvis worked in the business world, but her love for writing and a desire to pursue a career in publishing eventually led her to the classroom. There, she discovered her true calling: helping students become better communicators.
“I found that working with kids on their writing was something I was really passionate about,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to help students grow as thinkers and writers.”
Beyond the classroom, Jarvis has also poured her energy into the school yearbook, mentoring students in storytelling, photography, and design. She’s known for her engaging lessons, her love of poetry, and the personal connections she’s built with generations of students and staff.
“This place has been my family,” she reflected. “They’ve helped me raise my kids, who both came through Hamilton. They’ve celebrated with me, supported me during tough times, and even helped me parent. I will miss all of them.”
As she looks ahead, Jarvis is planning to spend more time with her family and embrace a slower, more flexible schedule. Though she’s not sure what comes next, she’s open to new adventures and opportunities—just without the stacks of essays to grade.
“I might have senioritis just as bad as my seniors do,” she laughed. “There’s some fear, some grief, and a lot of celebration all mixed together.”
