After 25 years of working in the district, Fair Grove Agricultural Sciences teacher, Future Farmers of America Advisor, and graduation announcer Matt Crutcher recently announced his retirement.
Crutcher described that growing up, he had many good teachers that inspired him to become one as an adult. Crutcher explained that everyday was a great day working at Fair Grove. “I’ve really enjoyed the community and the people that I have worked with,” said Crutcher.
Crutcher explained that some advice he would give to a new teacher is, “Don’t just show up, be involved in the school and the community of Fair Grove.” For students he said the advice he would give is to be coachable. “You can learn something every day that will make you a better human,” Crutcher said.
Cole Johnston has been Crutcher’s partner in the Fair Grove Agricultural education program. Johnston stated that he has many fond memories of Crutcher. “My mind gravitates to so many different things that have happened that were funny and made us laugh for a while,” Johnston explained.
Johnston also explained that Crutcher has been an active member and has had a lasting impact on the Fair Grove community. “He has been a pillar of knowledge and wisdom at Fair Grove Schools and has usually been a go-to individual to help with anything for the School. He has actively helped with community events, can be seen at most sporting events, and gets calls usually on the daily asking him to help with something else around the community.”
High School Principal, Christian Overstree,t described that he believed the impact Crutcher had on his students will be his legacy. Overstreet said, “Mr. Crutcher exemplifies everything it means to be a team player. He is very selfless in all that he does. He believed in connecting with his students in the classroom and outside of the classroom.”
Johnston stated that he is excited for Crutcher to begin a new chapter in his life. Johnston said, “I will miss his guidance on everything and our morning discussions and conversations. There is only one Crutcher and it will be hard to replace his success, but I hope myself and whoever we hire can try and continue the success that Crutcher helped create during his time at Fair grove.”
Johnston wanted to add that he was glad to have worked with Crutcher. “The lasting impact he has made on 27 years of students is an amazing feat and I will continue to cherish the fact that I got to learn from one of the best.”
