TAMPA, Fla. — As many teachers are getting their classrooms ready for the first day of school, a retired Bay area teacher is reflecting on her decades-long career.

Stephanie Stahl spent 42 years teaching at Incarnation Catholic School in Tampa. It's the same school she attended growing up.

"I sort of fell into it," she said. "And I was going to come here and get some experience for one year, and I never left."

Stahl initially taught fifth grade and then became a social studies teacher. She retired in 2023, but Stahl made such a big impact that a year later, a parent nominated her to be featured as an A+ Teacher. 

“I can’t even tell you what that means to me," Stahl said. "It’s just amazing. I have no words. I’m humbled and grateful."

She started teaching in 1981, and says Incarnation Catholic School means a lot to her and her family.

“My sisters all went to school here as well," Stahl said. "My mother worked in the library for many years. And my own two children went to school here. So it’s definitely a family affair, and that’s how we feel about everyone around here it’s a family."

Throughout her teaching career, Stahl has been involved in different student groups and programs. She also took students on a yearly trip to Washington; D.C. Stahl said she has many memories to cherish in retirement.

“My heart is always going to be here, and I always know I can come back and I’m welcomed and every time I come I get a great big welcome," she said.

Stahl says the decision to retire wasn't an easy one.

“There comes a time for everything, and hopefully I’ve done enough good things to leave a good legacy and I’m just incredibly blessed," she said.

Stahl said she is enjoying traveling the world with her husband in retirement.