Anne Knowlton and husband Bobby.| Joy Haynes

Anne Knowlton has decided to retire from her position as Morgan County’s Director of Elementary Programs after 16 years in the Morgan County School System and 34 years in education.

Her official last day is May 22.

Knowlton said she knew she wanted to be a teacher from the time she was in second grade.

“I really never thought of doing anything else,” Knowlton said. “I’ve wanted to teach since I was a second grader. I always enjoyed the problem solving to figure out the best way to educate our kids. It’s really all about the students, and they are one of the things I will miss the most.”

Before moving the central office in 2013, she was the principal at Priceville Elementary School for eight years and Ryan’s principal one year prior to that. Knowlton taught several elementary grades during her 23 years in the classroom. Before being hired into the Morgan County system, she worked in the Hartselle City School System for 18 years.

Knowlton is now able to look back over a successful career.

“I feel like I’ve fulfilled the goals I set for myself,” Knowlton said. “I’m especially proud that PES became an internationally recognized Lighthouse School because of our Leader in Me program. I feel like that’s extremely relevant in today’s society, and it’s a great accomplishment.”

She still had programs she wanted to implement in the school system that she didn’t feel like she had time to fulfill.

“I would like to see standards based report cards throughout the county,” Knowlton said. “They would show the parents and teachers a standard, so they can compare each students’ scores to see how they match up. That will take a number of years to put in place, and I knew I would not be able to see it through.”

Superintendent Bill Hopkins Jr. said the system is losing a dedicated educator.

“Dr. Knowlton has made an unbelievable difference in our school system,” Hopkins said. “The legacy she is leaving will outlast all of us, and I think that’s the true mark of an exceptional educator. Six years ago, she made me lay out my vision for the Morgan County schools, and she is a big part of making that plan happen.”

Several of Knowlton’s 10 grandchildren are in or will be in the Morgan County system. She is looking forward to her time with her retired husband Bobby Knowlton and the rest of her family.

“There are functions at my grandchildren’s schools that I will be able to attend now,” Knowlton said. “We already have a trip to the beach planned, which will be our first time to Myrtle Beach, and I hope to spend a lot more time at the lake with them. Nothing is set in stone yet, but I’m really looking forward to the extra family time. I still plan to volunteer at PES with my grandkids.”

Anne Knowlton takes a photo with her 10 grandchildren during her retirement party with friends, family and coworkers at the Morgan County Schools Central Office Thur., May 14.| Joy Haynes