Student Activities Coordinator (SAC) Sarah Fernheimer, often referred to as Fern, has been a SunDevil for almost two decades.
“I started at Salem as a special education teacher in 2008,” said Fernheimer. “I was hired the Friday night before the teachers returned to work… I had no idea what to expect.”
Fern describes herself as “loving [the] school and its students, a hard worker, a helper, a lover of all dogs, an empath, most comfortable behind the scenes, loyal, and a laugher.”
A few years ago, Fern left the classroom to join the administrative team as our SAC. She has many duties and responsibilities during the day and she explains that it is often hectic.
A day in October looked like this:
- Attend a Beach District S.A.C. meeting
- Meet with a coach
- Meeting with AP to discuss discipline issue
- Phone call with SAC at a different school
- Check in with picture day process
- Review/process/return facility use forms
- Work lunch duty
- Meet with coach to order uniforms
- Process White Bus Training packet for teacher
- Record a Walk and Talk segment
- Complete the JV script for announcer
- Scoop goose poop on turf for field hockey and JV football games
- Set up for field hockey games
- Assist in the set up for volleyball games and JV football games
- Go to VB National for golf match
- Return home at 8:00PM
Many students have no idea the amount of time, effort, and patience it takes to complete Fernheimer’s daily duties.
“I’m not entirely aware of all the specific aspects of what she does,” said sophomore Zoe Clevenger, who is also a member of the Girls’ Volleyball team. “I do understand she does a lot. I see her constantly with students, parents, and teachers alike. She’s always working on making a fun, safe, and supportive environment.”
Given her many responsibilities as SAC, Fern’s free time is limited, but she makes the most of it..
“I try to workout (shout out to my workout partner, Mrs. Patton) at least three times a week,” said Fern. “Up until a week ago, my hobby used to be to spend time with my dog, but I had to put her down last Saturday. My heart is broken. I love to sit on the beach, hang out with my friends, and do house renovations.”
Assistant Principal Gregory Moxley has worked with Fern for years.
“Fern is instrumental in so many ways. Without Ms. Fern, student activities would be a mess. She’s organized and thoughtful,” said Moxley. “Before she was student activities coordinator, we worked very closely. Fern and I spent so much time in meetings and [my favorite part of them] was her having a great sense of humor: she has a genuine laugh. In all day meetings, hour 5 with no lunch, she [spontaneously] starts laughing. Those are my favorite memories.”
Fernheimer is an integral part of our community. Student Activity Coordinators are often overlooked so make sure to express your appreciation if you see her in the hallways.
