After dedicating many years to educating her students in the wide world of the sciences, Ms. Elizabeth Coop will retire from Columbus High School after this school year.

Coop has taught for 33 years in 5 different towns across Nebraska including Arlington, Grand Island, Minatare and Mitchell. After many years in Western Nebraska, Coop and her family moved east where she taught at Columbus High School for the last 16 years.

Ms. Coop, a lover of science and the environment, has enjoyed getting the opportunity to teach classes such as Anatomy & Physiology and Environmental Science. In Anatomy, things are constantly changing, so she has the opportunity to learn alongside her students and present new content. On the other hand, Environmental Science is Coop’s passion. During these classes, Coop allows herself a “soapbox” where she can teach her students about the important environmental topics of this generation. 

Throughout her many years as an educator, Coop always loved hearing about her students’ successes.  Whether a student excitedly informs Coop about a newly awarded scholarship or an alumnus reaches out to report a new achievement in their career made possible by Coop’s tutelage, the satisfaction of witnessing her pupils’ accomplishments will, without a doubt, continue to bring a smile to Coop’s face, even in retirement. 

On a professional level, Coop enjoyed “sharing life and laughs with coworkers and students,” but she looks forward to retired life. Recently, her daughter gave birth to her first grandson in Western Nebraska where many of Coop’s other relatives reside. She plans to close the 360-mile gap by moving to Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

Aside from enjoying her newfound freedom with her family, Ms. Coop is looking forward to pursuing hobbies such as crafting, gardening, reading, and camping. Though Coop plans on keeping busy, she was sure to point out that there would be plenty of opportunities for relaxation as well.

Despite only having had Ms. Coop as a teacher for a semester, this journalist will always cherish the knowledge shared with her during class. She made an impact on students and colleagues alike. Everyone around her can feel her joyful and passionate disposition, and it will truly be missed.

We at Anchor News salute Ms. Coop on all her career accomplishments and wish her a long and happy retirement.

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