Security guard Teresa Avila retires after nearly 3 decades of service to Morton East
Teresa Avila retires after 28 years of service to Morton East.
May 3, 2023
As a Morton student, the security guard is a familiar face on campus. They’re the ones who greet you in the morning, monitor the hallways during class, and make sure everyone is safe. However, when they retire, we often don’t get the chance to hear their story or get to know them beyond their role as a security guard. In this article, we’ll dive into the story of a retiring high school security guard who has dedicated their career to keeping students and staff safe. One of them is none other than Morton East Security Guard Teresa Avila, who will be retiring at the end of this year. Morton East Senior Anastacio Ballesteros got a chance to talk to Ms. Teresa, ask her questions, and get her thoughts on her retirement.
Question: How long have you been working for District 201?
Answer: I’ve been working here for 28 years.
Q: Is there anything specific you’re going to miss about working at Morton East?
A: I’m going to miss helping students and staff every day.
Q: What is your favorite thing you’ve experienced at Morton?
A: I love graduation. Everyone is so happy with their families and friends.
Q: Have you considered what retirement will look like for you?
A: I know I’ll be relaxing. I also plan on traveling and maybe picking up some hobbies.
Q: Is there any advice you’d want to share with the Morton East community?
A: Anything is possible. I want students to stop thinking everything is impossible. You can do anything!
Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of throughout your career?
A: Seeing students at the beginning of the year, meeting them, and introducing them to East.
Q: How do you think Morton has grown since the start of your career here?
A: The staff really tries to help out students now. We really think about what’s best for them – in school, in life.
Q: What do you think will be the biggest challenge in your retirement?
A: Trying not to miss my work here at Morton East.
Q: What was your favorite part about your job?
A: Always helping students and staff.
Q: In five words, what words of advice would you leave to the students of Morton East?
A: Never stop. Follow your dream!
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Teresa Baez • Oct 18, 2023 at 1:01 pm
It was an honor & a pleasure to work alongside my mom. She truly cared for everyone she met throughout her years at Morton. She left a longing impression and I’m extremely proud of her accomplishment. This job is far from easy and full of stressful situations on any given day and time. You dedicated yourself in remaining strong- mind, body and soul. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude in having you as my mom. True super hero in my book. I love you beyond words and thank you for shining your beautiful light on us all. Congratulations Mom, your imprint will forever be with us.
Hector Avila Jr. • Oct 17, 2023 at 1:06 pm
Fun fact, she started working there my sophomore year, 1995. She looked very familiar, she kept me in check throughout my academic career. She has always been there for me. She also makes the best chiles rellenos ?. Her enchiladas are also ?. She’s my Momma! We ❤️ you X 100PRE! Class of 98’ ??
(Momma you have more time to make me chiles rellenos!)
Alma Rodriguez • Oct 17, 2023 at 11:45 am
Heartiest congratulations on your retirement after three decades of dedicated service at Morton High School! It fills my heart with joy to witness this significant milestone in your life, one that is truly deserving of celebration and admiration.
As you enter this much-deserved phase of retirement, know that your legacy will endure. The positive impact you have made on generations of students and colleagues will continue to shape the lives of countless individuals.
May this next chapter in your life be filled with endless joy, relaxation, and fulfillment. Take this time to cherish the memories you have created, nurture your own personal growth, and embark on new adventures. You have undoubtedly earned every moment of peace and contentment that retirement brings.
Once again, congratulations on this incredible achievement!
With boundless admiration and love,
Myta
Lisa Dure • May 5, 2023 at 1:33 pm
Teresa is the best! We are really going to miss her. Thank you for highlighting her.
Elizabeth Perez • Oct 17, 2023 at 1:00 pm
I’m proud of my sister, Theresa. When she started her journey it was to keep an eye on her son and daughter’s 4 year journey at East, she didn’t want to miss a beat and little did she know that the mission was bigger than her own children , she helped students see beyond the front door of East, she empowered them, disciplined, and gave them an open door to who she really was , a loving , caring and giving person. To this day alumni reach out and know that she was a tough cookie yet did not see anyone any different than her own children. I’m proud of you Sister because it truly takes a village and you did your part in this village!
I love you Sister! Thank you and it’s time to enjoy your new journey!
Liz Perez