David Ascher’s tireless dedication to the Novi Community School District proved to be incredible with a planned retirement ceremony held in his honor on May 22. As both a principal at Novi Woods Elementary School for twelve years and a total of 28 years spent contributing to the district as a whole, it was certainly an occasion that warranted recognition. All who had the privilege of interacting with him experienced his selflessness and commitment to creating the best educational experience possible for kids. From his efforts to inspire students within the classroom to the compassionate encouragement of colleagues when they needed it most, Ascher’s reputation for improving and strengthening lives is without rival.
On May 22, Novi Woods Principal David Ascher proudly posed with a commemorative plaque dedicated to his legacy at the school. His dedication to bringing the Nest outdoor learning area to fruition was evident, and his 12 years as principal of Novi Woods Elementary School and 28 years with the Novi Community School District have been truly remarkable. Photo by Patricia O’Blenes.
David Ascher’s time with the Novi Community School District was one to be proud of. On May 22, the Novi Woods Elementary School community recognized his 12 years of service as principal and 28 years with the district with a commemorative plaque dedicated to his legacy. Ascher’s dedication to bringing the Nest outdoor learning area to fruition is a testament to his commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities for students. His impact on the lives of those he taught and worked with throughout his career will be remembered for many years to come. Photo by Patricia O’Blenes.
Ascher’s retirement has been an opportunity for many colleagues and students to share their appreciation of the positive impact he had on their lives. He was often surprised to learn that seemingly small acts made a big difference, such as when a former student told him that his advice in fifth grade to smile more while learning inspired her to become a teacher. Furthermore, Ascher recalled the time he felt compelled to call and check on a colleague, and that voicemail helped her get through a difficult period. Finally, he took great pride in implementing the Lead with PAWS program, making over 6,000 positive phone calls to parents to compliment their students for doing something extraordinary.
Ascher was surprised by his colleagues and students as they gathered at the Nest, an outdoor learning area that features a garden and an amphitheater, to dedicate the area to him as part of his legacy at Novi Woods. To commemorate this occasion, a cast iron plaque, funded by staff donations and made by Mike Engerer, of Printnology Inc., whose kids attended Novi Woods, was unveiled. The plaque read in part, “During his time at Novi Woods, Mr. David Ascher taught us many things. He taught us to have grit and to hold high expectations. He showed us the importance of building a strong school community and reaching out to others.” A Buddleja davidii, also known as a summer lilac or butterfly bush, was also added to the garden at the Nest, which holds special significance due to its Latin name containing “David”. David Ascher’s retirement has been celebrated with much positivity and appreciation for all the meaningful connections he made throughout his career.
David Ascher was celebrated by the Novi Woods staff for all the help he had provided to the school. To commemorate his hard work, a butterfly bush was planted at the school to remind everyone of his roots there. With many staff members dressed like Ascher in Purdue or Wisconsin shirts, or his traditional style shirt, Donberger commemorated him for his care and dedication to people, citing his introductory book in Japanese that helps new students acclimate to the school.
Kokone Wakui, 14, spoke of how Ascher had gone out of his way to help her when she first arrived in kindergarten, despite not speaking Japanese. He found creative ways to break through the language barrier and encourage her to learn English. Shion Wakui, 12, recalled that a simple gesture of David remembering his name was enough to make him want to learn English, while Akiko, the mother of both children, remembered how Ascher had given Kokone a card with emoji on it so she could express her feelings every day – a small act which made a huge difference.
On June 9, Ascher was honored to be the caboose of the train of fourth-grade students who were clapped out on the last day of school. He selflessly chose to give the engine role to a retiring first-grade teacher and ensure that the students could receive their honorable clap-out. Through his commitment to connecting with each student, Principal Ascher has demonstrated an inspirational level of dedication to creating a diverse and inclusive school community.
He is looking forward to “reinventing” himself and discovering a new purpose in this next chapter of his life. A retiring friend of his offered a creative spin on the idea, advising him to refer to it as “repurposement”, instead of retirement.
Ascher remarked that it felt like he was writing his eulogy when people came to hug him and get teary-eyed. He quickly reminded them that this wasn’t a time of death, but rather a time of new beginnings. He encouraged everyone to stay in touch by offering his phone number and promising to talk about it if they did. It was certainly an eventful moment for Ascher and one that he is proud to be a part of.
He is now focusing his energy on being a great husband and dad to his two adult children. Additionally, Ascher also plans on spending more time with his aging parents in southern Wisconsin. With more time on his hands, he is excited to get back into some of his favorite hobbies, such as playing the guitar, woodworking, and scuba diving. All in all, Ascher is optimistic about the future and looking forward to what lies ahead.
David Ascher’s long career at the Novi Community Schools District provides a testament to his unwavering commitment to student success. Ascher has not only been making positive impacts on education and innovation, but the incredible stories parallel with that show his dedication to making the lives of those around him meaningful. David Ascher certainly left his mark on people and the school district alike during his tenure as a principal and that wisdom will be carried forth in his legacy with all who knew him.
