After 38 remarkable years at Brewster High School, Mrs. Sarah Barnes is preparing to retire, leaving behind a program that has become the heartbeat of student entrepreneurship and community service. While she has spent nearly four decades as a dedicated educator, coach, and advisor, it is her transformation of the Career Skills Program into a community hub over the last 10 years that has truly redefined what it means to prepare students for the real world.

Under Mrs. Barnes’ leadership, the Career Skills Program evolved from a traditional classroom into a dynamic collection of student-run businesses, providing students with diverse abilities the chance to master vocational skills through hands-on experience. Mrs. Barnes, alongside her dedicated team, helped launch five distinct businesses that serve both the Brewster Central School District and the local community.

Whether she was coaching softball, advising the step team, or famously donning the Bear costume to show her “extreme Brewster Pride,” Mrs. Barnes has been a constant source of joy and support for her students. While she may be retiring, the “Bear Essentials” of her legacy—compassion, hard work, and the belief in every student’s potential—will remain a permanent part of Brewster High School. Her presence will be deeply missed by her colleagues, students, parents, and the entire Brewster community.

Congratulations, Mrs. Barnes, on a well-earned retirement. You will be impossible to replace.

To send her off properly, and to highlight the impact that she’s made, Bear Facts suggested that we have the Career Skills students interview her for this piece. Here is what they came up with.

Joseph, who loves that Mrs. Barnes lets him tell his jokes to the class, asked her “What inspired you to become an educator?”

“My passion for working with children, along with the incredible teachers and coaches I had at Brewster High School, inspired me to become an educator.”

Seeing Mrs. Barnes dressed up in the bear costume is Christian’s favorite memory. He asked Mrs. Barnes to describe her career path before coming to BHS. She told him, “I graduated from Brewster High School in June of 1983 and went on to Syracuse University, where I studied Art Education. I later returned to Brewster as a full-time substitute and coach while earning my Master’s in Special Education from College of New Rochelle. In 1989, I was hired as a full-time Special Education teacher—beginning a career that would span 39 incredible years.”

Justin and Angelica love reminiscing about heading to Met Life Stadium to practice flag football with Mrs. Barnes. They asked, “What would you cite as the highlights of your career?”

“I am so proud of the countless memories I’ve made throughout my career. Some of my most meaningful moments include giving my children, Brian and Amanda, their diplomas at BHS graduation ceremonies, celebrating my son Brian’s induction into the BHS Athletic Hall of Fame, and cheering him on during his undefeated senior football season. I’ll always treasure attending his football and basketball games with my daughter. I loved coaching Softball, Cheerleading, and Step Team, appearing live on NBC News for our Bubbly Bears business, and organizing events like the homecoming carnival and BTA retirement dinners for over 400 guests.

Traveling to MetLife Stadium with our Unified Flag Football team and watching the Career Skills program grow into such a supportive and opportunity-filled community.”

Jade is grateful for help from Mrs. Barnes with a prom dress and jewelry and wonders what she’ll miss most after retiring. To that, she said, “Without a doubt—the people. My colleagues became family, and my students were always my ‘why.’ The friendships and connections I’ve built will stay with me forever.”

Mrs. Barnes made learning about math and weather fun for Matthew. He asked, “What aspects of your work at BHS will you miss the least?”

She quickly replied, “The 5:00 a.m. alarm clock, lockdown drills, and those long fourth Tuesdays.”

Spending time with Mrs. Barnes at proms and the senior picnic are some of Brianna’s fond memories. She asked Mrs. Barnes, “What have you learned from the students you have worked with?”

Mrs. Barnes told her, no doubt referring to present company: “My students taught me how to be patient, resilient, compassionate, and present. They reminded me every day to celebrate progress, no matter how small, and to always lead with kindness.”

Benjamin and Jeffrey loved sharing the dance floor at the prom with Mrs. Barnes and wondered what advice she would give to someone just starting out in education or at BHS? She said to “get involved beyond the classroom. Don’t just teach—coach, advise a club, chaperone events. Take the time to truly know your students and your community. Attend staff gatherings and let the building become your extended family. ‘Bleed Green!’”

Matias knows Mrs. Barnes is fun because they dance and sing out to the bus together but he wants everyone to know some other fun facts about her. “I’ve attended 40 Brewster High School graduations of which one was my own—and I’m a proud sneakerhead with 62 pairs of sneakers!”

Dominic and Bradley love the coloring and beading projects Mrs. Barnes taught in art class and wondered what her favorite places are. “If you ever get the chance, visit Newport in the summer—beautiful ocean breezes, amazing food, and peaceful walks along the beach.”

Lunchtime has always been a fun period for Damien, thanks to Mrs. Barnes. He asked “What are your hopes and/or plans for your retirement?”

“In retirement, I look forward to spending more time with my children and my grandson, Cal—and hopefully welcoming a few more grandchildren! I’m excited to surround myself with family, friends, and all the moments that matter most.”

The students, who are currently working on their conversational abilities, all enjoyed learning so much more about Mrs. Barnes and what experiences made her who she is. They will miss her tremendously, as will the entire Brewster community.