RETIREMENTS: Vicky Simpson, St. Andrew Catholic Elementary School

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Vicky Simpson

RIVERTON — Despite the many joys that a career in Catholic education brings, Vicky Simpson now is embarking on a new chapter in her life: retirement.

“The decision to retire was based on a number of recent circumstances that made me realize that I need to spend more time with my family,” she said about stepping down as St. Andrew’s principal.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my five years at St. Andrew,” where she served first as assistant principal, then as principal, she said. “I have had the privilege to collaborate with an amazing pastor, faculty and staff.”

At the school, the families were always very warm and welcoming, and “have supported me throughout my time here,” she said, adding that she will cherish every moment “I spent with students as I watched them grow and develop into wonderful children and young adults. … I have been inspired by their zest for life and learning, and I know that I have learned more from them than they have learned from me.”

Being part of the Utah Catholic Schools has been a great experience for Simpson, who attended the Bishop Glass Intermediate Learning Center, which closed in 1980, and Judge Memorial Catholic High School.

“I am a product of Catholic schools myself, and those experiences have had a profound effect on the person I am and on all aspects of my life,” Simpson said.

Before moving into school administration at St. Andrew, she taught science and math at St. Francis of Assisi Elementary in Kearns.  

Feeling blessed to have been involved with Catholic education for many years, Simpson is grateful that she has been a part in continuing its mission, she said.

“There have been so many memories over my years at St. Francis Xavier and St. Andrew, too numerous to count,” she said.

Some of her fondest memories includes the impromptu hugs and “I love yous” received from students, and “the funny questions and comments from the students, and the sparkle in a student’s eyes when they ‘get it,’” she said.

Other fond memories that she will keep in her heart forever is when former students visit after high school and college to share their accomplishments and plans for the future, she said. “Also the camaraderie of the faculty and staff and the many times the school community comes together to support each other.”

Now that she is retiring, she plans to spend more time with her family, travel and “check things off of my bucket list,” she said.