UHS: Educators of the Year

UHS held its final faculty and staff meeting of the school year on Tuesday, June 16, recognizing two incredible educators who are retiring, as the UHS Educators of the Year. The award, instituted in 2016, recognizes outstanding educators for their contributions to the school and community. This year, the award was given to Hurley Silbor and Christine Prior, who are retiring after lengthy careers at UHS in which both have made lasting impacts to their students, colleagues, community, and school.In sharing remarks about the two excellent educators, Dr. Michael Rubin referenced the classic nonfiction piece by John Updike, Hub Fans Bid Kid Adieu, about the last game of baseball legend Ted Williams' career and his home run on his final at bat. 

"There are those in sport and history who leave their careers perhaps a bit too long," said Dr. Rubin. "For example, we remember reading stories of Napoleon isolated on an island, or Ronald Reagan absorbing jokes about his declining faculties, or Willie Mays in a Mets uniform. For Chris Prior and Hurley Silbor, there was no such decline. They leave the profession still doing the job as well as they ever have, setting the example for what it means to be a professional, the consummate educator, a great teammate, and a tremendous colleague."

The two were presented with the traditional Adirondack chair as built for retirees in the school's manufacturing program, as well as a plaque that recognized them for "steadfast commitment and professionalism to the students and community of Uxbridge."  Reflecting on their legacy, UHS Principal Michael Rubin noted that both Ms. Prior and Mr. Silbor are concluding their tenures at the height of their professional impact. Comparing their exit to the legendary final home run of Ted Williams, Rubin remarked that their contributions are firmly "in the books" as they transition into retirement. Their careers have been defined not just by longevity, but by a deep sense of purpose and a mastery of their craft that has left an indelible mark on both students and colleagues.

Throughout their years of service, Prior and Silbor have embodied an "indefensible hope" in the potential of their students and the success of the school. While they may not have sought the title of the greatest educators to ever live, the sentiment of their excellence will endure in the minds and spirits of the generations of learners they have inspired.

The Uxbridge High School community extends its deepest gratitude to Chris Prior and Hurley Silbor for their years of dedication and wishes them the very best in their future adventures.