When asked if she would recommend a student attend a one-room school as in the old days she replied, “Oh no! The present system provides a much better teacher to student ratio and the student learns more thoroughly when only one grade is taught in the room. I feel, if one had a choice, that it would be better to close country schools and spend the money saved by transporting students to larger centres for schooling where the child can benefit from new systems of education.”
School board chairman, Rudy Landsfried presented her with a farewell gift. In her farewell talk to the board Mrs. Bray harked back through the years and recalled she started teaching in Progress in 1943 in a little log building in which there were more mice than there were children. She said she loved teaching and “doesn’t regret even one day of it”.
Mrs. Bray’s record is a long one, showing her starting at Progress in 1943 – 44, moving to Central Pouce Coupe School 1944 – 45 and to North Dawson Creek School 1946 – 47. She was then at Fort Nelson in 1947 – 48. She had a brief rest from 1952 – 53 then returned to teaching at East Pouce 1955 – 56, Doe River 1956 – 57, South East Dawson 1957 – 58, Parkhill School 1958 to 1967 school years and finally at Rolla from 1967 – 71.
Many residents of the Peace River Country will undoubtedly have memories of being taught by Mrs. Bray and they, along with the School Board will wish her well on her retirement.