The family that works together stays together. Just ask the Springers.

“This is a real ‘proud mom’ moment for me,” says Gina Springer, first grade teacher at Lima Ridge Elementary. “Both of my kids are here in the district working with me.”

Gina has been a teacher with the district for 21 years, moving from the former Jersey School, to Summit Station Intermediate, to Broad Peak, to Lima Ridge for her final year before retirement. Gina says she intentionally chose to move to Lima Ridge for her last year so she could challenge herself and be a part of Heights history with the opening of the new school.

“All of my experiences have just been a stepping stone of growth,” she says. “I made this decision myself for my final year, that I wanted this next experience.”

Her son, Sean Springer, is in his seventh year with the district, where he has worked in the custodian and maintenance departments. Daughter Casey Morris also joined the district this year as a long-term substitute in the English Language Learner (ELL) department.

“I am really excited to be doing this with my mom, especially since it’s her last year teaching before retirement,” Casey says. “It’s really cool to work together for her last year, and my first year getting my foot back in education.”

Sean recently stepped into a leadership role at the brand-new Athletic Complex, opened by the district in August 2024. He serves as the lead groundskeeper for both the Athletic Complex and the Fieldhouse, helping to maintain a new era of Licking Heights history. 

All three family members agree that having someone who understands your daily work experiences enhances their relationship–especially since Gina and Casey often work with the same students.

“It’s fun because we can all connect in a very unique way. Like last night, we were all just shooting each other texts about school and our days,” Casey says. 

“It’s good to have someone to talk to that you trust that understands what you’re going through with work,” says Gina. “It’s just very unique, having someone you can confide in.”

Aside from being a family, the Springers all say that Licking Heights itself feels like a family. As a long-term sub, Casey says the team made her feel welcome and immediately included her like a full-time teacher.

“The staff is incredible, and will support and collaborate with you on different work projects and needs. Overall, they’ll be your family away from home. I’ve already made such great connections and friends,” she says.

Sean, meanwhile, mostly works independently. However, he says he always feels like he can approach his coworkers and district leadership when he needs additional support or has questions. 

“It’s easy to talk to people if you worked with them in the past or have a history with them,” he says. “People are very open and friendly.” 

Since Gina has been in the district the longest, she has connections all across schools and departments. 

“I’ve made friends all across the district–in the bus garage, in the district office, in the schools. It is going to be hard for me to let it go once I retire,” she says. “I can’t walk into a building and not see someone I’m connected to, with that sense of family and community. The growth has been amazing, and I still feel a sense of community even as things change.”

All three family members agree that the district’s growing population and diversity is something they want to celebrate and be a part of. Even as more students join the community, Licking Heights maintains a family-focused, small-town feel.

“I really want to embrace the growth and diversity in our district, and hopefully make a positive impact with that–especially being an ELL teacher,” Casey says. “I hope to continue developing professional relationships that leave me working here in the longer term.”

“The expansion and the growth keeps me coming back each year,” Sean agrees. “The thought of the future is still bright here for Licking Heights.”