Duplication specialist reflects on experiences

Soledad Lee
Social Media/Graphics Editor

STLPHOTOPARTY.COM — Photo provided by Elaine Hartmann

Duplication specialist Elaine Hartmann retired this year after seven years in the high school.

Hartmann printed and copied worksheets for teachers, graduation programs, the Echo newspapers, etc., in the copy center, which is in the library.

Hartmann enjoyed her time at the high school and reflected most on the positive impact that talking to teachers has brought her.

“The biggest satisfaction that I have had… was seeing that I was able to help the teachers. I’m here to do obviously what they need for instruction, but also I get to know them…I talk to them and I get to know their children and I get to know more about themselves,” Hartmann said.

Hartmann was at Hixson as the library aide from 2003 to 2015. When her job was eliminated due to budget cuts, she worked in a call center before going to work at Bristol for a year. In August 2017, Hartmann took the job she has now at the high school.

As a family-oriented person, Hartmann has always enjoyed working with children and students. She has worked with younger children, but she also enjoys talking to the high school students and seeing their opinions.

“I love working with children. I’m more of a family oriented person…I also like having more grown up conversations with the kids at the high school too. I can talk to them and say what would you do if you had a way to change things and all these other things,” Hartmann said.

Hartmann has felt comfortable in her time at the high school and within Webster.

“I also like the environment…the things that are just so unique to Webster like the Turkey Day celebration…I feel like I’m very at home here,” Hartmann said.

Her work has been recognized by assistant principal Madeline Craig as well.

“My AP principal has told me that some of my work looks like it’s been professionally done,” Hartmann said.
Hartmann reflected on her decision to retire.

“I’m just proud that I’ve managed to do everything that everybody has expected of me to do relatively easily, and I just can’t imagine a better time at this time in here to say, ‘Goodbye,’” Hartmann said.