Social studies teacher Rebecca Williams has been a staple of Chapman for 20 years.

But now, she is finishing her last year, having made the difficult decision to leave Chapman to spend more time at home as a mother and a travel agent.

Family is the biggest factor in her decision. The hustle and bustle of having three children and a husband who is an airline pilot is demanding.

“(I just need) to slow down and focus on taking care of my family because of my situation with my husband traveling all the time,” she said.

Although she is excited about her new family and career prospects, she is going to miss Chapman, particularly the people.

“The relationships I made with colleagues and students and the culture of cultivating those relationships, it’s not like any place I’ve ever been,” said Williams.

Freshman Abigail Parkkenen, one of Williams’ current students, mentioned Williams’ unique ability to balance the demands of the class but with reasonable expectations, thus making learning easier.

“Chapman is losing a great teacher because she’s amazing and very sweet, very kind,” said Parkkenen.

Sophomore Parker Gramling, a former student, noted that with her departure, Chapman is losing a teacher whose creativity led to learning.

“She had these parties where we did foods and customs from other countries,” he said. “It was a lot of fun. She was one of my favorite teachers. She helped me learn a lot about the world in fun ways.”

It’s not just Williams’ teaching that will make students miss her; it’s her ability to connect.

“She builds relationships, so that’s the key thing about Mrs.Williams,” said senior Matthew Davis. “What I’ll miss most about her is her caringness and love, how much she loves her students and how much she cares about each one of us.”