This month, Advanced Placement (AP) Literature and Research teacher Lori Molodow was recognized for her forty years of service with Virginia Beach Public Schools. Mrs.Molodow has taught for 42 years, a total that includes 40 years in Virginia Beach and two in New Jersey.

Throughout her time in Virginia Beach, she has taught at Kempsville, Ocean Lakes, and CHS, where she has been for the past 15 years.

Although Molodow has many cherished memories from her many years in the classroom, a few stand out more than others.

“One year, a friend of mine taught first grade at John B. Dey, and I taught AP Literature at the school. Her first graders wrote letters to Santa, and my seniors then pretended to be Santa’s elves and wrote back. It eventually expanded to include all of first grade, and our seniors dressed up as elves to hand out the letters, which was an experience,” Molodow said.

During her 15 years as a Falcon, Molodow has been a positive influence on both students and staff.

“Mrs. Molodow is truly a fantastic teacher and human being. All of her lessons serve a real purpose for students, and her students should be so grateful to have her,” AP Literature student Barrett Pendergast said.

After dedicating more than four decades to the classroom, Molodow reflected on the many emotions that come with such a milestone.

“Reaching my 40th year of teaching feels bittersweet. I know that I cannot do this forever, which is the bitter part. But the sweet part is that after 40 years, I can say I still enjoy what I’m doing,” Molodow said.