A fond farewell for Charter founder
Proser
By DEVIN HEILMAN
Staff Writer
COEUR d’ALENE — To Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy teachers like Heather Solsvik, Dr. Bill Proser didn't just found an incredible school.
He created an ideal work environment where instructors and their students flourish.
"He gave us teachers a gift, let’s be honest," Solsvik said. “He created this school, and this is a gift. It has given me an environment in which teaching is first. Because of that, it has made me a better teacher.
“I owe my career to him."
Charter social studies teacher Lynne Stembridge, who shares a classroom with Solsvik, wholeheartedly agrees.
"The greatest gift that Dr. Proser endowed this institution with was the idea that teachers are masters in their content area," Stembridge said. "Because of that, they have the freedom to determine within the basic parameters where to focus, what to hone in on, how to change their curriculum so it best facilitates the learning of each group of kids in every class every year. That’s an amazing freedom."
Teachers, students, former students, colleagues and friends alike will have opportunities to share their stories and bid Proser a fond bon voyage during Proser's retirement celebration this Friday at Charter.
"He's impacted a lot of kids," said Laura Beyer, assistant to the principal at Charter.
The party goes from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and will feature a video montage of well-wishes and anecdotes honoring the founder of Coeur d'Alene's first charter school. Proser will be retiring after a 43-year teaching career.
Even though he's retiring, he still plans to be active in his community.
"It’s a chance to do something different, but also I’d like to still help guide the school, perhaps in a different position," Proser said. "Also, the first day, I’m probably going to look for work.”
Donations are being collected for a retirement gift and legacy item to be on display at the school. To contribute, visit https://goo.gl/abwIXH.
To contribute a video to include in the montage, contact Beyer at lbeyer@cdacharter.org.