Salt River High School students and staff recently held a goodbye party for Catherine Kasper, 11th- and 12th-grade English Language Arts teacher, and longtime JROTC instructor Sam Carter. Everyone shed some tears, ate some cake and celebrated the accomplishments of these two instructors as they move on to new challenges.

Carter is leaving after dedicating 15 years of service to the students of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. 

“It’s sad because of the kids,” he said. He explained that he enjoyed getting to know the students and is proud of all that was accomplished during his time in the Community. 

“I’ve had past students who went on to the military. One is going into the Army, and another [joined] the Air Force and is now going to medical school,” said Carter. “[The good things are] things like that, the success stories of the students. There are the sad parts too,” he added, mentioning students he worked with who have passed away.

Carter will continue to participate in the American Legion and stay in Arizona with his family. 

“I am appreciative to have had the opportunity to work here in the Community; it means the world to me,” said Carter. “I told the students a long time ago [that] I am not from here, and the Community didn’t have to hire me, but they are trusting me with you to lead you in the right direction.” 

Everyone wished Carter and Kasper the best of luck.