Beloved secretary Figgins steps down after 22 years in the front office at BHS.

In an era of iPods, Georgia Figgins remembers what it was like to be a dictaphone gal.

In those days, one was more likely to find a typewriter than a computer in the main office at Bainbridge High School. And dictaphones, eventually rendered obsolete by more modern recording devices, were still office staples.

Through 22 years of changing technology, shifting trends and a trunk-full of triumphs and travails as a secretary at BHS, Figgins has filled a vital seat at the school’s nerve center.

Now, she’s passing along her chair to someone else.

“I have mixed feelings,” she said, of leaving her secretary’s post. “I’ve gotten to know a lot of wonderful people along the way.”

It is those connections, Figgins said, that will stick with her more than anything else now that she’s retired. Figgins cleaned out her desk yesterday for a chance to spend more time with her husband Bernie, their five children and 12 grandchildren.

Their plans, she said, call for some camping and traveling, but “nothing exotic.”

She’s part of a book club with several teachers and she still plans to be involved with BHS as a volunteer or substitute, but will no longer be the ever-present face behind the desk.

“I’ll miss the rush of the first day of school,” she said, before adding that every school day holds the prospect for some kind of adventure. “It can get crazy in the office, whether it’s a kid with a broken nose or an irate parent.”

When she first started at BHS, Figgins hadn’t planned on such a lengthy stay. She only knew it was a fun job, and that she was providing a valuable service. Slowly, though, she became a fixture at the school.

Principal Brent Peterson has worked with Figgins throughout her time in the district, including the last four years as her boss.

“She is one of those people who have an amazing ability to connect with people in a way that communicates understanding and support,” Peterson said. “I can’t imagine a more capable person to be at your front door. We’re going to miss her.”

Figgins said the feelings are mutual. She enjoyed watching the changes over the years, and remembers fondly going to sporting events, plays and musical performances, including those of her own children.

“Every class has its own personality,” she said. “There have been times when it was not so cool to be involved in school activities. During those times there wasn’t as much participation at dances. There wasn’t as much school spirit. But it’s been growing lately.”

Parent involvement has swelled as well, she said, with more parents taking an active role in their children’s education now than in some years past.

The school’s enrollment has nearly doubled – from 800 to 1,500 students – during her tenure, but the staff in her office has remained roughly the same size. Services have also increased, which has led to more multi-tasking and busier days.

Her most exciting moments come when she passes a former student on the street, some of whom now have their own children in school.

“I love to see students succeed,” she said. “I hug them and they tell me what they’re doing now. Some of the kids you’d least expect to make it often do.”

Along with the positive times, she remembers hardships, both local and national, that brought the school together. Students and teachers lost to tragedy or illness. The Columbine shootings and 9/11. All forced the BHS community to rally together.

“The kids are so mature,” she said. “They have so much knowledge and insight and caring. They handle themselves so well and really help get each other through.”

Figgins lauded parents and the community for continuing to support Bainbridge schools through the years, and her fellow staff members for helping her to do her job.

Flo Ferguson, who has been learning the ropes from Figgins, will take over as secretary.

Figgins said send-offs began in January, culminating with a school-wide assembly and party last week, and a smaller staff party yesterday, her last day.

Now she’ll turn her attention to her family, remembering always the students, friends and former colleagues who, unlike the dictaphone, will never slip into obsolescence.

“My philosophy is pretty simple,” she said. “I just try to connect with people in a way that makes them feel good about themselves after they leave me.”