Sharla Sundberg has been a beloved member of the Spectrum high school staff starting seven years ago. Sundberg recently departed from the Spectrum community, but her effect will not be forgotten. She was often a substitute teacher, but is also recognized as the accompanist for Spectrum High School choirs.
Lydia Peterson said “In choir we call her Ms. Sunshine because she always puts a smile on everybody’s face whenever she can tell you’re having a bad day she’ll try to cheer you up and give you a hug and make sure you’re okay.” She has been an example and calm presence for many students.
Bella Schluender said “She’s been a really great example for me just like she carries herself with such grace and dignity and she just the way that she holds herself and the way that she interacts with other people, it doesn’t even have to be with me but being able to see her and be like wow like she is living her best life even if she isn’t.” Schluender is not the only one who has been affected by Sundberg’s example, Brycen Jones said “She’s been a good example and a role model to me of being positive even when all these things are happening in her life that forcing her to leave in the upcoming days but she’s still been here for us she’s still been full of smiles and hugs and love for all of us so if I could try to emulate that even a little bit I’d be a better person.”
Sundberg has been a shining light in students worlds. Lyla Glinsek said “Ms. Sundberg has helped me know that even in the darkest times and in the scariest moments there’s always light and even if you don’t feel the light around you it’s important to be that light and she’s just really shown that in everything she’s ever done.” Ezekiel Ruzek said “She’s always just so warm to everyone like if you’re having a bad day even just saying hi just makes the day so much better there’s been so many days were me or somebody else has just been sad or tired and we just get to say hi to Mrs. Sundberg in the hallways and it just makes the day nicer and more bearable.”
Sundberg has many parting words to share with Spectrum students. She wanted them to know how hard leaving has been for her and how much she cares for each and every student. Sundberg said “It’s been an honor being here, it’s been an honor subbing and getting to know kids who are not in choir. You all bring value, you are special people. This is a special place. Remember that always, even when it’s hard, even when it’s hard this is a special place.” Sundberg also said “I see you. That’s the one thing I want you to know more than anything is that I see you and I love you and you all have value.”
Many will miss her, and her addition to Spectrum will continue to be honored and remembered throughout the Spectrum community.