Karen Shearer Arnold

I graduated from ISU in music education in 1965, taught in Danvers, Hopedale, than Olympia when it was built. Married J. Dennis Arnold in 1965, and we were married for 26 years before divorcing. I went back into teaching after my children were in school and finished 22 years at Metcalf Lab School on the ISU campus before retiring in 2003. I still am very active in music, especially church music, but also lots of community work including musicals, recitals, and community performances. Love to direct musicals, orchestras, and choirs.

I really enjoyed the small town atmosphere of WCHS. Particularly enjoyed the musical activities ( of course) including our after school classes with Mr. Broadkorb for those who were interested in a music career. I will always be grateful to the great teachers we had, especially Mr. Broadkkorb and Mrs. St. John who convinced me that I could go to college. My family moved in March of my senior year, and I was allowed to stay in Wyoming to graduate. There was a terrific snow storm in March 1960 and we were out of school for a week. I enjoyed all the activities (snow fights, etc.,) involved with being 'in-town' and around others. I also enjoyed the dances, especially the noon hour ones, band, choir, contests, U. of I music camp, Blackhawk Festivals. All in all, a very fun and fond memories of my time at WCHS.