Behind the Scenes: The impact of Deb Franson at VHS

Co-written by Sienna Magdasy.

ACHIEVE. Deb sits at her office desk waiting for students to arrive. Deb has had an influential impact on the students and staff at VHS. Photo courtesy of Sienna Magdasy (12th).

After nearly three decades of dedicated service, Deb Franson is retiring from her role as the school registrar, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, commitment, and fond memories. Deb’s journey at the school began as a volunteer parent, which gradually led her to subbing and eventually stepping into the registrar role. Deb has been with the school since 1996, and has seen it evolve from its old building to the modern facility it is today. In that time, she has witnessed countless changes, yet one constant has remained: her dedication to the students and the school community.

“I have worked at this school since 1996, almost 30 years, and I have been the registrar the whole time,” Deb Shared.

Over the years, she became a fixture in the office, and a friendly face students and staff could count on. As the registrar, Deb’s role is crucial in keeping the school’s records organized, ensuring paperwork was properly tracked, and making sure everything in the office ran smoothly. Despite the length of her career, Deb is excited for the future.

“I’m excited about this next chapter in my life. I am retiring, and we are moving to Yakima to be closer to our son and our grandkids,” Deb said.

This new chapter brings with it a chance for Deb to spend more time with her family, a transition she is eagerly anticipating. However, Deb’s time at the school has not been without its memorable moments, and she shared one particularly amusing story from the past.

“We were in the old building, we had a different safe, and it was a dial safe. The office manager at the time was gone for the day, and she had always been very particular about the safe, and who could open it and who could not. Well, I went to open the handle, and the whole handle came off, and I landed on my hind end on the floor. I thought to myself, ‘Oh gosh, she’ll know I was in there!’” Deb explained.

It’s moments like these, unexpected, humorous, and human, that have marked Deb’s time here. Looking back on her years at the school, Deb fondly remembers the students as the heart of the school.

“It’s definitely the students, it’s their energy and their excitement. Each day, it’s something new,” Deb shares.

The enthusiasm and unique personalities of the students keep Deb motivated, and she takes great pride in being part of their journeys. As she reflects on her nearly three-decade career, Deb summed up her time at the school with gratitude:

“It’s been quite a ride, thanks,” Deb shares.

Her positive impact will undoubtedly be felt for many years to come, and while she will be missed in the office, her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. As Deb embarks on her new adventure, the school community celebrates her remarkable career, cherishes the memories she leaves behind, and wishes her all the best in this exciting new chapter of her life.

To capture the essence of Deb's impact, Jackie Merrill and Char Phillips, two of Deb’s long-time colleagues, shared heartfelt stories, memories, and reflections emphasizing what Deb means to the school.

Jackie Merrill, who has worked alongside Deb for six years, fondly recalled Deb’s storytelling abilities.

“She has some hilarious stories—probably not repeatable. You’ll say something, and she’ll go, ‘That reminds me of a time…’ and take you down memory lane. She remembers so much, even from her childhood,” Merrill shared.

One memory that stands out for Merrill is when Deb snapped (just once) at a parent.

“We don’t pin notes to your kids’ jackets anymore. They’re in high school now,” Merril recalled Deb saying.

A moment that perfectly captured Deb’s blend of straightforwardness and wit.

Char Phillips, who started working with Deb in 2002, refers to herself and Deb as “the remaining relics of the school office,” highlighting the depth of their shared experience. Some of her favorite memories are from the annual senior prank tradition.

“Off we go to find all the things the seniors have done through the school that we have to take down before anybody gets here,” Phillips stated.

It’s a quiet behind-the-scenes moment that captures Deb's dedication to her role.

Deb’s colleagues agree—her role is nothing short of foundational.

“Deb makes me look good in my job, She’s the gears that steer this ship. A lot of people say I run the school, but I couldn’t do it without her,” Merrill admitted.

Deb’s understanding of past practices, her ability to keep teachers on track with grading, and her willingness to go above and beyond—even responding to emails while at doctor appointments—are just a few of the ways she’s gone the extra mile.

Phillips described Deb as someone who truly embodies the flexibility and patience required for the job.

“You have to let things go. Move forward. Especially when someone walks in with a bad attitude,” Phillips said.

Debs' calm, easy going approach sets the tone for the whole office. Her colleagues shared what they will miss the most about Deb.

“Her daily reliability. She's the first one here and often the last to leave. She’s loyal, dedicated, and incredibly knowledgeable. Those are huge shoes to fill,” said Merrill.

Deb’s dedication to her position, not only helps to keep the office in order, but also ensures her colleagues are set up for success.

“I will miss having her there to help me out,” Phillips added.

As Deb enters retirement, both colleagues believe she’ll embrace this new chapter with energy and purpose.

“I can’t see her sitting still. She’ll probably end up volunteering at her new local school,” Merrill said.

Phillips offered a piece of advice:

“Don’t look back,” Phillips urged Deb.

Merrill also shared a heartfelt message for Deb as she begins this next chapter:

“I hope she savors her time with her grandkids and her husband — they can hang out now. I hope she gets to travel a lot and can find life without checking emails constantly. I will miss her incredibly,” Merrill said.

Deb, your school family wishes you nothing but the best in this next chapter. May your days be filled with meaningful time with your grandkids, new adventures, and well-earned rest. Your dedication and presence have left a lasting mark on this community—one that won’t be forgotten!

CELEBRATE. Deb stands proudly, reflecting on her years of service. As she embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we honor her dedication and contributions to our school community. Photo courtesy of Lily Youngman (12th).