What was supposed to be the annual student assembly at Stanley Elementary School turned into schoolwide celebration for retiring Principal Marcia Pertuz on Friday.
Having only been at the school three years, Pertuz has made a lasting impression on the Stanley community, which was demonstrated through the books, poems, artwork and songs dedicated to her from teachers and students.
Assistant Principal Thomas LeFort, who acted as master of ceremonies for the celebration, organized the surprise honor.
"About three weeks ago I sent out an e-mail to all the teachers. I asked each grade level to come up with something to present to her as a nice parting gift," he said. "They kept me up-to-date on what they were doing. I know it meant a lot to her."
First-grader Grace Belsie played Pertuz "Gavotte In G Minor," by Johann Sebastian Bach, on her violin, which brought students and teachers to their feet in applause.
A top-10 list of things faculty and students would miss about Pertuz was presented by third-graders, with the number one trait they'll miss being "your bright red lipstick on your big beautiful smile that makes us feel warm inside."
Other offerings included a memory book of photographs and a power point presentation accompanied by folk music in which drawings of Pertuz made by students were projected on a screen in the school's gymnasium.
"I'm just absolutely overwhelmed by the love the children showed me and how they all worked together," she said. "There's so much friendliness here in this building. It's a very, very happy place."
Pertuz, a Cambridge resident, said she has been a teacher for about 20 years in many different states, most recently at the Amigos School in Cambridge for the past 12 years.
After finishing principal license training, Pertuz applied for the top job at Stanley Elementary School. She began work during the 2006-2007 school year.
On Friday she recalled her first day as a principal.
"I tried to go around and shake every child's hand so I could get to know them," she said. "I remember being impressed by how quietly they walked in lines and came in and out of the building."
Pertuz plans to relocate to Fernandina Beach, Fla., where she and her husband, Alvaro, are building a retirement home.
On Friday, Pertuz said she plans to pursue other teaching opportunities after she leaves the district.
"I'll probably do some coaching of new principals and some teaching of adults," she said. "But no full-time (work). Hopefully lots of travel."
Jeff Gilbride can be reached at 781-398-8005 or at jgilbrid@cnc.com.
