Are you preparing a heartfelt speech for your upcoming retirement ceremony? In this article, we’ll provide you with sample retirement speech examples and writing tips that will inspire and thank you. Use these examples to help you craft a heartfelt and classy exit speech that will make your moment special!
Corporate Chairman’s Exit Speech
Good morning, everyone, 2024 is just around the corner. Today is November 30, and a day later, December will begin. It’s hard to believe how quickly the year has flown by, and we’re suddenly feeling a little nervous. But we have no reason to be nervous – the end of an era means new beginnings. A new year, 2025, lies ahead of us, and we will face many more moments of choice. Sometimes we may regret or beat ourselves up over the choices we make. But I want to assure you of one thing: whatever outcome you face, it will never be created unless you choose to create it. Doing nothing leaves us with deeper regrets than failure, and it keeps us beating ourselves up for longer. No one can predict the outcome of a choice, but the difference between trying and not trying will never be small.
I remember our company’s humble beginnings, and I can still see the faces and names of the passion, hard work, and talent that made our company shine, and it’s that strength that has allowed us to grow into the strong force that no one can ignore today.
Looking back, I wonder if my enthusiasm for the company has gotten the better of me. Ignoring my age, I think I’ve been living beyond my capabilities, thirsting for more and more achievements. A quote from a book I read not long ago made me reflect on this: “People are happiest when they do work that requires only 70% of their abilities. The other 30% should be spent on yourself, outside of work.” But I didn’t live that life because I didn’t realize I was a dullard, and now I’m emptying my vessel that was always overflowing.
I’m going to leave all the rest of the work to you, and I know that you’re going to forge ahead with more capable leaders, and I’ll be watching from afar, cheering and applauding. I’m going to dedicate the rest of my life to emptying my greed, and I hope I don’t leave you with the same regrets I had. I hope you build your life to the fullest, finding joy and rest in your work and in your life. May you never make the mistake of learning to empty at the end of your life.
Thank you.
Novelty speech at the company president’s retirement ceremony
Good evening, dear employees. This is the last day that I can officially say goodbye to you from this podium. With much regret, I wish time would stop, but alas, time moves at its own pace, as it always does. Time in my mind has stopped, and the world seems to be moving on too fast. It’s unfortunate, but I sincerely hope that our company will continue to run and develop without me, just like the rest of the world.
As one of the original founding members of the company, I remember exactly 16 years ago, we started in a small office, with our big dreams and visions in our hearts. In fact, compared to now, it was a very poor environment back then. All the systems and procedures of the company were unfamiliar to us, and we were clumsy, but we took it one day at a time, doing our best and moving forward. The challenges were scary, but thanks to all of you who believed in us and stuck with us, we were able to grow our company step by step.
Along the way, you have endured a lot of hard work. You have always done your best, even in the face of uncertain market conditions, and you have remained hopeful whenever the company has gone through difficult times. Your dedication and passion have made our company stand strong, and we would not be where we are today without each and every one of you.
I sometimes wonder if my greed has made things difficult for you, our employees. Sometimes I’ve held you to harsh standards to get better results, and I may have missed some things because I was so focused on the growth of the company. But I can assure you, I’ve seen how much you love and care about this company, and it’s given me tremendous trust and pride. And that’s what I want to say to you now.
Leaders and charisma! Leaders need to be able to lead the company to grow, and leaders need to be able to listen to the different opinions of their employees. While I sometimes wonder if I have been too dogmatic in my management of the company, one thing I am sure of is that the professionalism and cooperation of our employees in their respective positions has been a great foundation for the development of the company. The truth is, it takes inclusiveness, judgment, and most of all charisma for a leader to respect the wishes and opinions of his or her employees and to be able to reconcile them. Charisma is an essential quality in a leader. This is a truth I’ve learned from my years of experience, but my time here is short.
I’m confident that our new president and all of you, our employees, will step up to the plate and provide that leadership, and I’m now in a position to step back and support you. I hope that you will fill in the gaps and lead the company, and most importantly, I hope that you will take this company even further. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for you, and I’ll be cheering you on from afar as you create your own growth.
I’m turning this company over to you. I’ll be watching and cheering from afar, and I want to thank you all for being with me for the last time, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Thank you.
Retirement farewell from the head of a musical instrument company
Good afternoon, Mr. Lee. This is Mr. ○○○, President of ○○Musical Instruments. I would like to thank you all for joining us today to hear my final announcement. It seems like just yesterday that I was here delivering New Year’s speeches and various announcements, but I never thought I would be delivering my retirement speech. It’s a very surreal feeling.
The management principle that I have always kept in mind while leading the company is “cherish our employees” because I believe that work is a human affair, and good results are produced when people are at ease. Therefore, I have listened more closely to the problems that you communicate with each other and try to solve them together. Of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. There have been conflicts and discord, and there have been differences of opinion, but I believe that all of them are signs of fierce efforts for better results. And who can blame anyone, it was all done in good faith for the good of the company.
At this point, when I am about to retire, what greed is there left? I only hope that this ○○ instrument, which I have been with for more than 50 years, will continue to develop steadily in the future, and that my children will be able to play it one day. That is my small wish.
Everyone, like the octave notes on the piano, there is not a single person in this room who is not important to me, and it is with great joy that I can look at you now and say goodbye for the last time. I’m happy to have done my part and to be able to leave on a high note. I hope you all always feel comfortable and happy here. I hope you don’t have any frustrations or difficulties, but just be happy, because I have found so much happiness here in my life.
Today is my last day as the CEO of ○○Musical Instruments, and I am happy today. Thank you.
Company president’s farewell speech
Good evening, everyone.
Autumn is deepening. In this season, when the green leaves are turning into their own beautiful colors, I’m here to say goodbye to you for the last time as I step down as president. Yesterday, as I watched the sun set from the roof of the company, I thought about what a beautiful way to end my time here today.
The past 30 years as president of ○○ Company have been the most meaningful of my life. I have been driven by the pursuit of perfection, with my eyes only on the company and its work, and it is true that sometimes stern and sharp words have preceded warm words to you, and that may have made you nervous and sometimes hard. I believe that this has helped the company grow step by step, but I still regret and apologize that I have not been more warm and generous to you.
Now, I’m going to loosen my tie and enjoy the simple things in life that I’ve been missing for so long. But I hope you’ll remember my name, the moments we shared together, and how much I cared about you, even if it wasn’t enough.
In retrospect, I was just one person who wanted to work faithfully for our company, and the real protagonists of our company have always been you, and now I leave the company in your hands. I have no doubt that your new passions and ideas will make our company shine even brighter.
At this moment, I am filled with emotions. I’m leaving, and you’re taking a new step forward. I sincerely wish the new president and the young people who will take over the reins of the company even greater progress and leaps forward.
Thank you for being with us for so long, and thank you for every moment of it.
Thank you.
Example of a movie company president’s departure speech
Hello, I’m Mr. ○○○, the CEO of the movie company.
It seems like just yesterday that I joined the company as a rookie, and now I’m standing in front of you as the CEO. I may have been remembered as a tough boss and sometimes as someone who made a lot of demands on you, but today I’m here to tell you that I’m stepping down as CEO for the last time.
Have you ever thought about why filmmakers make movies? Money, fame, interest, aptitude, etc. are all important factors. They’re things you should definitely consider when choosing a career, but they’re things that can be fulfilled in other professions, not in film. Nevertheless, I loved film because the life of a filmmaker is special: a job that requires you to stay awake, a job that requires you to be socially conscious and constantly flogged, and that’s what the life of a filmmaker is. I couldn’t survive if I didn’t do it myself.
Being a filmmaker is not like any other profession. We have to be socially aware, understand our contemporaries, read the changes and currents in the world before others do, be deeply interested in subjects that sometimes don’t interest us, and be sensitive to fads and trends. This was foreign to me at first, and it wasn’t easy to adapt, but it brought me one step closer to the special world of cinema, and gave me a deeper understanding and sense of responsibility for the world.
What about you, are you awake? What I have always demanded of you is not just for money or fame, because there is so much more to a movie than that. We are not just people who make entertainment; we are people who touch people’s hearts and give them a new perspective on the world. You have a creative role to play in touching those hearts and broadening their horizons.
I would like to take this opportunity to dare you to be an awake intellectual, to be an awake filmmaker, and to make awake movies. That will be the way to fulfill your professional calling.
I step away with faith in you, in the movies, in the company, and in your ability to make the world a better place. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sample final retirement statement from the head of a company
Good morning, dear employees. It’s a beautiful day today, much to my surprise. It’s like the excitement of the first day back at work after a long absence, and today is one of those days when I’ve never been happier. But it’s not just the intense sunshine that’s making my eyes light up.
I came to Tokyo as a young man, and I’ve built this company from the ground up, one small step at a time. I can still remember countless days spent building this company. The passion and time I put into this company was my life, and even the humble beginnings remain the most precious memories for me. I have never forgotten the faces and names of each and every one of you, especially the people who have shined here with passion and dedication. Thanks to our collective efforts, we have achieved the success we have today and have grown into a company that no one can ignore.
But looking back on the years that have passed, I wonder if I’ve been too driven by passion, sometimes even pushing you too hard. In my love and greed for the company, I may not have realized that I was an aging leader who needed to change. I thought I was doing it for the company, but I wonder if I was actually trying to fulfill my own greed. It’s as if I wanted more than my natural vessel could hold, and I’ve always lived with it full, but now I’m ready to put it down and empty it.
A passage in a book I read recently deepened that reflection: ‘Man is happiest when he is using 70% of his abilities,’ and it really struck me that I should leave the other 30% for me, for my life. I’m not a genius, I’m not a jack-of-all-trades, and I’ve been giving 100% for this company, but now I realize it’s time to empty my vessel.
Perhaps what an old man needs most is a break, and I’m leaving this company in your hands. With your talent and determination, I know you will build a younger and more vibrant future for this company. I will be watching from the sidelines, but I will be cheering you on as you grow and develop.
I’d like to leave you with a few final words. I hope you enjoy your work, but make sure you take time for yourself. I hope you know when to rest, and I hope you know when to stop. I didn’t realize this until it was too late, but I sincerely hope that unlike me, you create your own life.
I am deeply grateful to all of you for being a part of my retirement today, and I will always wish you good health and happiness, which I have sincerely appreciated so far.
CEO retirement speech in winter
Good morning, everyone. The cold winter is here, the wind is blowing, and I’m thinking that another year is coming to an end. As I sipped my coffee this morning, I suddenly realized, “I can’t believe another year is coming to an end. It’s amazing how quickly time flies and how precious every moment feels, and as I reflect on the years that have passed, it’s only in November that I realize the year is coming to a close. We can’t stop the passage of time, but we can learn to adapt to it and live efficiently. The older I get, the more the saying “it’s never too late” resonates with me: right now, you’re the youngest you’ll ever be, and you can do so much. Don’t let time pass you by in vain.
Time seems to stand still while I’m here, but the world is still busy, and while I sometimes miss it, my hope is that our ○○ company will continue to grow and prosper long after I’m gone. I think back to 20 years ago when we first opened our doors. I never imagined that this small company that started in a tiny office would grow into what it is today, I just started with a big dream and a lot of passion. This company that I put all my heart and effort into, and all of you who have been a part of it, mean the world to me.
Over the years, I wonder if I’ve ever let my greed get the best of me, or if I’ve ever made mistakes and burdened the company with my over-ambition. But now I want to say this to you for the last time.
As a leader, you need to lead your company to grow, and above all, you need to listen to your employees and take their input. I knew this, but sometimes I didn’t practice it well enough and came across as somewhat dogmatic. Leaders need to have the inclusiveness, judgment, and charisma to respect the wishes of their employees, listen to their opinions, and align with them. This charisma is an essential quality in a leader.
I encourage our next president to keep this in mind, and I encourage all of us to work together with our new leader to take our company even further. It is never easy to leave a company that I have so lovingly built, but I know that with your focus on growing the company, I will be able to leave in peace.
Thank you, everyone, for everything you’ve done.
Executive exit speech with good advice
Good evening, everyone.
The holidays are already upon us, and the streets are filled with colorful decorations and warm lights. The weather may be cold, but our hearts are warmer than ever. The end of the year is as much about the end as it is about the beginning. It’s been said that a true luxury item is only as good as its finishing touches, and I hope you’ve had a meaningful end to the year and are ready for the new year ahead.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for joining us today. I am deeply grateful to all of you for joining us. I’m at a point in my career where I’m coming to a meaningful conclusion to my time at the company. It’s been a long time of dedication, and I have many fond memories of growing up together. The experiences we’ve had together, starting as an entry-level employee, working my way up to deputy, team leader, and now to my current position, have been a great asset to me.
In particular, I’d like to emphasize the importance of focus and passion. Over time, our passions can fade a bit, and we can become accustomed to conforming to the status quo. I noticed this change in myself and decided to leave my job to start a new challenge, and I encourage you to take a moment to check in with yourself and see if that initial passion is still there. If your goals seem faded for a moment, they’re not gone, they’ve just been temporarily obscured. I hope you all find your bearings and don’t lose sight of your initial focus.
I’m leaving with a lot of regrets and memories, but my heart will always be here. I will always carry the passion and precious experiences I’ve gained here with me, and I will continue to grow in the future. I hope that you will always shine brightly in your respective positions.
Thank you again, and I sincerely wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
With gratitude.
Corporate Executive Honorable Departure Speech
Good morning, everyone.
The calendar is still in November, but the weather feels like it’s already in the middle of winter. The older I get, the more I feel the cold seeping into my bones, and every time it touches my body, I am reminded of the weight of the years. Perhaps this weather makes my retirement all the more poignant, and while there will be more cold winter winds to come, I hope that the memories I share with you today will remain as warm as ever.
It’s been almost 40 years since I first stepped foot in our company. I remember the time when I first joined the company and worked every day and night with passion and responsibility. I spent my days learning and working with my seniors, and my nights working overtime to grow the company and myself together. There was no distinction between “my company” and “your company.” I was convinced that the development of the company was the development of me, and we did everything together with that belief. I am proud and rewarded to be a living witness of the path that has brought us to where we are today.
I joined the company at a young age, worked my way up through various departments, and today I am honored to retire as a director, which makes this day even more special because of all of you, my colleagues, who have encouraged and supported me along the way. My sincere thanks to all of my valued colleagues who have shared the joys and sorrows with me. Without you, I wouldn’t be here today, and now I’m stepping down with all of those experiences in my heart.
Looking back, the growth of our company has had many stories and challenges, sometimes difficult, but all of them have shaped me into the person I am today, and I have no regrets. The struggles and hard work of those days have nourished me to be where I am today. For me, my company is a great gift in life that makes me feel fulfilled and rewarded. The pride I felt when I accomplished a task, the moments that made me feel deeply satisfied as a person and as an employee. My company gave me those precious moments, and I gave my best to the company to repay them.
Ladies and gentlemen, I am stepping down now with those warm gifts deep in my heart. In closing, I would like to thank all of you for being here with me, and I will continue to support our company’s infinite development. I wish you all good health and happiness.
Thank you.
A heartfelt note from a CEO leaving the company
Good afternoon, I am deeply emotional today, and I am grateful for today’s retirement ceremony because it is not everyone’s good fortune to end where they began. As I look back over the years, it seems like just yesterday that I was starting my professional career here, and now I’m standing here. My time with this company has been filled with joy and reward, as well as challenges and pain at times, but I’m grateful that it’s been one of the most passionate and beautiful times of my life, and that it’s only possible because of the people who have shared it with me.
Learning from, and sometimes competing with, colleagues with different experiences and talents has been an invaluable asset in my life, as I’ve been able to meet a wide range of people, challenge and grow with them. We’ve worked day and night together on countless projects and goals, and we’ve been able to grow by supporting each other through the tough times. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all once again.
As I leave, I’d like to offer some heartfelt advice to those of you who remain, especially in hopes that your time here will be a positive force in your lives going forward.
First, always keep your mind open to new possibilities. It’s easy to get caught up in our work and lose sight of the changes happening around us. Don’t settle for what’s right in front of you, but always take a step back and look at the big picture. If you see something that needs to be reoriented or improved, don’t be afraid to make that change. The key to success is finding the creativity in your work and putting it into action. Your commitment to change and creativity will be invaluable to our company’s progress.
Second, value diverse perspectives and relationships. We all see and feel the world in our own way, but as part of a team working together, we need to learn from each other, and I encourage you to actively engage with your colleagues, even those from different departments, to share new ideas. Being different means being special, and it can be an opportunity to explore new ways of doing things that others may not have thought of. A mindset of respect and acceptance of difference enables better performance and innovation. Make an effort to observe and learn from everyone you work with-after all, organizational growth starts with small interactions and learning.
Third, never lose faith in yourself and your company. There will be times in the course of your work when you question your abilities or face challenges, and it’s important that you believe in the skills you’ve developed during your time here and the values the company has built. Just as our small efforts have made a big difference, your steady challenges will leave a big footprint on the company and society. I hope you value your values and find confidence in them.
Although I am leaving today, the time I have spent with you here will always be a special memory for me. I believe that your efforts and achievements will make our company shine even brighter in the future. I sincerely hope that you will take on new challenges based on the experience and learning you have accumulated here, and that you will continue to strive for your own goals.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of this journey. I’m leaving the company, but I’ll always be here to support you, and I look forward to watching you grow and achieve new goals in your respective positions. I close by wishing you all good health and happiness. Thank you for listening to this long story.
President of a nanomaterials company
It’s September, and as our heat-weary bodies rejuvenate, we look forward to the bounty of the coming fall after a hot summer. Personally, I love fall because it’s the season of fruitfulness and the holidays that bring our people together in warmth. It’s a time when I feel that all the hard work we put in during the summer heat has paid off.
Today, I’d like to give you my final thoughts. It’s been 38 years since I started working at this company. Looking back, my life has been with this company, especially over the past few decades, as we have watched nanotechnology become a centerpiece of advanced industries and impact every aspect of our daily lives. When nanotechnology first emerged, many were skeptical, but we have made it a reality. Nano is no longer a futuristic technology, but a core industry that plays an essential role in our lives. The nanomaterials industry has become an indispensable foundation industry in various industries such as electricity, electronics, information and communication, machinery, and biotechnology.
Since its inception, our company has succeeded in developing and producing the world’s highest quality products, and has grown steadily while competing fiercely with the world’s leading nanomaterials companies. As a result, today we have established ourselves as a leading company in the global nanomaterials industry.
I am now completing my role and handing over the reins to the next CEO to lead the company. I look forward to seeing our company continue to innovate for customer satisfaction and further develop as a leader in the global nano industry. The responsibility for realizing our vision and forging a new future lies in your hands. Although I am stepping down, I will always stand behind you, and I believe you will continue to make our company a world-class company.
Thank you for all you have done.
A freshly written corporate CEO retirement message
Good morning, employees, and thank you for taking the time to be here today. I’ve heard so many nice things from so many of you on my way out the door, and it’s comforting to know that I’m leaving the company. I will take all of the words of gratitude and comfort that you have shared to heart.
I have dedicated myself to our company for quite a long time, and there have been so many twists and turns to get to where I am now, starting as an associate. I have seen the company fall on hard times, and I have run from client to client to save the company. I can vividly remember the sweat and tears we have shed together.
Sometimes we stayed up all night to plan, and whenever we encountered unexpected challenges, we all pulled together to overcome them. The experience we gained along the way has been a great asset to me as a leader. The achievements and growth we’ve made together to get the company to where it is today is something I look back on with pride. Every moment we shared together fills me with deep gratitude and pride.
It was hard to contain my sadness as I watched one or two of my old coworkers leave the company, and while I still have a great group of colleagues who are still working hard for the company, I felt like I was being left behind for quite some time.
It took a lot of thought before I decided to leave. I’m sorry that I had to make this decision on my own, against the advice of everyone around me. But I’m asking you once again to trust my decision and bless my path.
Do you know Joël Robuchon, the French chef who was once recognized as the world’s best chef, who abruptly announced his retirement at the age of 51, citing as his reason for retirement that he had reached the peak of his abilities; that he didn’t think he could achieve any more; and that pursuit without progress was not his style.
We often see people who don’t realize when it’s time to leave and go down a gradual path of decline and fall, never forgetting the peak they once enjoyed even after they’ve passed their prime, and along the way they end up losing what little talent they have left.
I’ve come to believe that my time at this company has come to an end. Times are constantly changing, and the market is always demanding something new. To prevent that from happening, we will always need to arm ourselves with new talent and innovative ideas.
I will continue to wish our company prosperity long after I’m gone. It’s not just me, it’s the hard work and passion of each and every one of you in this room today. I know that your dedication and hard work will make our company shine brighter and the dreams we’ve built together stronger.
To all of you who are here today, I hope that you will make a concerted effort to improve the company. This concludes my final remarks. The camaraderie that you have shown me over the years will remain in my heart and mind for a long time to come. Thank you.
High school teacher retirement speech
Good afternoon, and thank you to all of the students, staff, and parents for being here today. It is truly an emotional and meaningful day for me to have parents and students organize this retirement ceremony for me today. Today, as I reflect on my journey as an educator, I am overwhelmed with emotion. I still remember the excitement and fear I felt when I first felt the weight of the word education. Today marks my last day as an educator and my last day in public service. I’m filled with mixed emotions, but most of all, I’m bittersweet and wistful.
I started on this path because of the heartfelt teachings of a teacher I had as a student, who taught me that “education” is not just about imparting knowledge, but about giving people direction in life and helping them find themselves in it. That has been the greatest thing that has sustained me as an educator. When I look back on my life as an educator, I realize that I have many shortcomings, and many thoughts run through my mind, but I try to reflect on what kind of teacher I have been for my students.
I can’t help but ask myself what contribution I have made to society as an educator. I don’t think I have made much of a contribution to society, but I have always had a heart to do the right thing and lead my students to the true path, as all educators do. I believe that within the confines of the school, I have grown along with my students. Although it has been exhausting and difficult at times, I wouldn’t trade it for any other job.
However, the most rewarding part is when the students I taught are now working in the world and are doing well for themselves, and when they come to me to thank me, I feel rewarded and joyful as a teacher. I also remember admonishing and lovingly supporting students who were not adjusting well to school life and wandered away. In the process, I repeatedly asked myself the question, “What do children really need?”, which led me to a period of reflection as a teacher. The time I spent trying to communicate with them with all my heart is very precious to me now. When they understood my words and actions and found the right path, I felt great joy that they had grown up rightly as disciples.
I am sorry that during my long and short public career, I neglected my own children because of my concern for them, but I am sure they will understand my meaning, and I hope they will forgive me for any resentment, misunderstanding, or frustration they may have had with my behavior. I pledge to myself that I have treated my students selflessly.
I leave this school today, but my heart will always be here. The voices of the students in my classroom, the small moments I shared with you, will remain in my heart for a long time to come, sustaining my life. I know that the rest of you will continue to guide your students to the best of your abilities as educators. Perhaps the greatest wish a teacher can leave his or her pupils is the hope that each will shine in their own lives and walk the right path.
Once again, thank you for holding this farewell party for me today, and I will always hope that your students have a bright future ahead of them. Thank you.
High School Teacher Retirement Speech
Good afternoon, and thank you to the students, faculty, staff, and parents for joining us today. I am deeply grateful that you have organized this retirement ceremony for me today, and it is a great honor to be here with you on my last day as an educator. This is an emotional moment for me, and one that I will never forget: today is my last day as an educator and my last day in public service. I am filled with a mixture of excitement and bittersweet emotions.
As I look back on my years as an educator, I realize that I’ve done a lot of things wrong, but I also realize that I’ve done the best I could. Looking back, there are so many moments, and in all of them, I feel that the time I spent with my children is what makes me more special in this moment. Despite my efforts, I can’t help but reflect on how dedicated I have been as an educator and as a member of this society. Sometimes I made mistakes, and things didn’t go my way, but in the time I spent with you, I have been reminded of my role as an educator.
It was my job to teach and guide students, but looking back, I think I was also taught a lot. As a teacher, I didn’t just teach you knowledge, but I also shared a human connection with you, and re-learned some important values in life. Sometimes you asked me questions that I hadn’t thought of, which made me think anew about myself, and in the process, I think I was both a teacher and a lifelong student.
Each of my students has become more than just a student to me, but a cherished relationship and a big part of my life, especially when they have been with me for a long time and have respected me as a teacher, and when they have grown up to become successful members of society, and when they come to me one day to say thank you, that is the most rewarding moment for me as an educator. I would like to take this opportunity to send my heartfelt support to all of my students who are quietly forging their own paths.
There have also been moments in my teaching career when I’ve had to hold students accountable to the principles of teaching, which is heartbreaking. Sometimes I would admonish students who wandered off, sometimes I would use harsh words, and sometimes I would try to embrace them with the same heart as a parent. These moments have accumulated to make me who I am today, and these times have meant a lot to me. I hope that students now understand the sincerity behind my strictness as a teacher, and if there was any misunderstanding, I hope that it can be resolved today.
Looking back, I realize that I may have neglected my own children as I devoted more time to my students, but my children are also here today, and they have understood my path and supported me, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them as well. I may have had my shortcomings as a father, but I am deeply grateful for their understanding of my path as a family man and an educator.
I will be leaving this school in the future, but I have a request for the staff who remain. Guiding students and helping them realize their potential is a mission we must fulfill as teachers, and I hope you will do your best to guide them to find their true path, even if the direction of their education is sometimes difficult and challenging. The world is constantly changing, and our education needs to evolve and grow with it, and it is my sincere hope that you will never stop learning and become educators who grow with the times.
Finally, if there is one thing I wish for my students, it is that they always stay positive and follow their dreams. There are so many more possibilities and challenges ahead of you than there are today, and even though the road may be bumpy and difficult at times, I hope that you will remember the teachers of today, believe in yourself, and walk with confidence. I will always be cheering you on, even when I leave this room.
It means a lot to me to be here today, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I wish you all good health and happiness, and with that, I will conclude my speech. Thank you.
A farewell to teaching
Good morning, everyone. It’s January, the end of another year, and the cold of winter has become more fierce. I’m sure you’re all preparing for new beginnings in your own lives, but today I’m here to say goodbye to you for the last time. As I face this moment of farewell, my heart is as lonely as the cold wind in the middle of winter, but at the same time, it’s full of memories like warm sunshine.
I used to always sit by the window and look out at the scenery. The way the sunlight sparkles or the wind rustles through the air is soothing. Sometimes I’ll turn my head out the window and think of the children sitting by the window in my classroom. I can still see them filling each other with laughter. It is with these memories in mind that I share my story today.
I first decided to become a teacher as a child, thanks to my elementary school teacher. When she announced that she was retiring, she left a heartfelt note for each and every one of us, which I read and reread for a long time afterward. I can’t tell you how much it meant to me to read those warm words in that little note. “I’ll be a teacher like you someday,” I thought to myself, and that moment stuck with me, and the excitement of that day has led me to where I am today.
But now, as I look back, I wonder if I’ve really lived up to that promise and given my heart to each and every one of my students. I wonder if I’ve let my busyness get the best of me, and if I’ve let them down a bit. But the memories of the students I met along the way are the ones that have given me the greatest growth and will always be close to my heart.
I’m sad to leave the classroom I’ve grown to love. I think of the anxious and troublesome children. I cherish the times I spent with them, the times we struggled, the times we laughed, and the times we shared. To me, every one of them was a ray of sunshine with a bright face, sometimes sunny, sometimes cloudy, and I sincerely hope that all the students I shared my heart with are happy wherever they are.
And now I have one last wish. I hope that the moments we shared together will remain fond memories for you and give you the strength to move forward. And when you hesitate in front of a new path, I hope it will give you the courage to open the window and face the world.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all my students, fellow teachers, and the school community for trusting me and being with me for so many years. As I leave, I will leave you with these words of gratitude, and I will once again think of you with precious memories that will never fade from my heart. I sincerely hope that the sun will always shine on your path, and that you will always have a gentle happiness.
Yours sincerely.
Principal’s Farewell Speech by Student Representative
Mr. Principal, good evening.
As I stand here, I can’t believe how quickly time has passed. We’re already at the end of 2022, and there’s only one page left on the calendar. Just as the year has flown by so quickly, our precious time with you has flown by in the blink of an eye. Time seems to slip away the more we try to catch it, but as Galilei said, the earth still spins. And the memories of our principal will continue to live on in our hearts and minds for many years to come.
As we come to the end of another year, we often think about the things we didn’t do, the little mistakes we made, and wonder why we didn’t try harder, why we didn’t spend more time with her. But time is irreversible, and we can only move forward with the lessons she taught us. Just as a clock can only move in one direction, we will also walk forward towards the future, and what you have shown us and taught us so far will be a bright light on our path.
Meeting our principal has been a very valuable experience and a great lesson for us. She approached the children with a warm smile and the staff with fairness. The way she cleaned the school and greeted the students every morning was like a painting. Each of his handwritten letters was filled with warmth and sincerity, and I can still see him instilling hope in the students and respect and trust in the staff.
His words of wisdom also reminded us of the importance of being an educator. Through your words and actions, you taught us what true education is and what the path of a true teacher is. Through you, we realized the right values and the true meaning of education, which made us better teachers. The deep teaching and love you have instilled in your students and staff will continue to inspire us.
My time with you was always enjoyable and full of learning. I learned from you that a true leader must have both strength and gentleness. He always stood up for what was right and led the school fairly. He listened to each staff member no matter the situation, and he looked at each student with warmth and compassion. We all learned from him what true leadership looks like.
Like a big tree, you provided us with shade, and we grew up feeling comfortable and secure under your shadow. You always led the way and guided us to the right path, so we could follow and learn from you. Your upright attitude and warm teaching have been a great asset and strength to all of us.
Although we have to say goodbye to you today, the memories of our time with you will remain in our hearts forever. All the teachings and love you gave us will bloom in our hearts and be passed on to the children we teach in the future.
Now, as you leave us with beautiful and precious memories of your time at ○○, we would like to thank you once again with all our respect and gratitude. We sincerely wish you good health and happiness on your new path. We hope that you will continue to fulfill the great purpose of education and that you will continue to be a beacon of hope for all of us.
Thank you.
Teacher’s retirement farewell speech
Thank you, everyone, for being here today. Today marks the end of my 30 years. As I look forward to this day, which seemed like it would never come when I was younger, I am filled with a sense of emotion. As I picked out my tie to stand here today, I was feeling a little sentimental. After years of wearing worn-out suits, I wore something a little more expensive for this retirement ceremony. My wife was surprised to see me. I wore an expensive suit today, but that’s okay. Because this day in my life is worth it.
Everyone has a last day. For everyone, the end means a lot, especially when it’s the end of a long and storied history that has taken up most of a person’s life, and today is one of those days.
When I think back on my teaching career, I vividly recall the day I walked into a classroom for the first time. When I was a student, I used to imagine myself as a teacher and teaching children, but the reality of teaching was different from what I expected, and sometimes unexpected challenges were thrown in my path. I’ve made mistakes and learned from them every step of the way, and now I’ve reached 30 years, and I’m truly grateful to all the people I’ve met along the way, and to my students.
As a student, I dreamed of becoming a teacher; as a young man, I struggled fiercely; and as a teacher, I experienced a lot of happiness and troubles while dealing with students in the field. The word “teacher” has a special meaning to me. That’s because my entire life is summarized in that one short word. I am now leaving the field that I have loved and struggled with so much.
The school was never just a job for me; it was the center of my life, the place I was most passionate about. The times I spent with my students remain some of the most cherished memories of my life. The possibilities I saw in their eyes, the excitement I felt as I watched them grow, and the pain I sometimes felt as I shared in their wanderings and frustrations – all of these experiences have shaped and strengthened me. They have made me a better teacher and a better person. I think they will stay with me for a long time to come.
I’m leaving my school, leaving behind children who are growing up every day, students who are a joy to be around. But there are still quite a few days left in my life. At one point, I had the weak notion that the day I left the classroom, my life would end. But leaving the field doesn’t mean leaving the children behind, or losing the school forever. I promise to look back on my teaching career and focus on the writing I’ve been putting off, and strive to live a life outside of the classroom that is a milestone for someone. If writing about my experiences and knowledge can help younger teachers and students in some small way, that alone will be a new reward in my life.
I hope that everyone in the school will be a living witness to the true power of education: education that can make a person grow, education that can point a person in the right direction, and education that can boldly convince students when they are on the wrong path. I believe that education plants the most important seeds for the future, and if you will allow me to see and hear the name of our school from afar, I will have the satisfaction of an old age.
Like my predecessors who taught me the path of teaching, I now hope to be of some help to younger teachers, and I will look for opportunities to contribute even a little advice to their concerns and passions. I will not forget the path of education even as I leave the school, but I will walk this path in a different way.
I wish you all the best for the future, and before I sign off, I’d like to thank you all for being here with me. Words can’t express how much my time with you has meant to me, and I wish you all the best in your respective positions going forward. We may take different paths, but we will always support each other wherever they lead.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Teacher retirement farewell written by a fellow teacher
Good morning, today is a special day that feels like the warmth of a spring day even though it’s the middle of winter. Today is the retirement day of Mr. ○○○, a true teacher and a true educator for all of us. We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. ○○○ on his honorable retirement from teaching, where he burned himself like a candle to light up the darkness.
Mr. ○○○ has been working at ○○ Elementary School for ○ years and has made a lot of dedication to the development of the school. You have warmly cared for your students as if they were your own children, setting an example of a sincere and caring educator, and you have generously provided support and advice to your junior teachers, sometimes like a father, sometimes like an uncle.
Although I was not able to witness his early years, he had a reputation as an excellent teacher who was respected by his students for his excellence and deep love for his students, which was widely known beyond ○○ Elementary School and spread to neighboring schools, which is a testament to his sincere love for his students.
He always told us to treat students with love, and I remember him saying that even though teachers don’t get paid much, guiding students to the right path is the most valuable reward. He always showed us junior teachers how to treat students by example, reminding us of the true value of being a teacher.
It is with great sadness that we have to let you go now. You’re still young and energetic, and I’m sure you have a lot of things you want to do, but it’s very sad to see you go because you’re retiring.
Even though you are leaving the world of education, your teachings and warm words of encouragement will always remain as a guide in the hearts of countless students and junior teachers. Once again, we sincerely congratulate you on your honorable retirement and wish you good health and happiness in the future from all of us at ○○ Elementary School. We will take your teachings to heart and always treat our students with love. Thank you.
Final greetings at the teacher’s departure ceremony
Everyone, now that I am leaving, the past years are passing by like a flashlight. I see the faces of so many students who have passed through my hands since I first stepped into the classroom, sometimes joyful, sometimes challenging, but all of it has been worthwhile, and the things I’ve learned from being with you have become some of the greatest assets in my life.
I realized that education is not just about teaching knowledge, it’s about understanding people, growing and changing with them. In my time with you, I have tried to be more than just a teacher, sometimes a guide in life, and sometimes a warm comforter. When I think back to the difficult moments, listening to you, and growing with you, I can only feel grateful.
Now, as you head into the SATs, I’d like to leave you with a few words of advice: first, believe in yourself. You’ve already been through a long journey, and you’ve become strong enough along the way. Even if you’re afraid of failure, you can learn and grow from it. Second, support each other through this time. Lean on your friends and teachers to help you so you don’t feel like you’re alone. The memories you make with your peers during this time will serve you well in the rest of your life.
Finally, I hope you never let go of the dreams you’ve always had in your heart. There will be many tough and challenging moments along the way, but remind yourself of what you want to accomplish. Your goals will be your most powerful motivators and guides, and I hope that your journey will not be judged solely by the outcome, but rather by the process of strengthening and growing yourself along the way.
I hope that my departure is not a parting of the ways for you, but another beginning. The connections we have made here will not just end as teacher and student, but will lead to relationships that will positively impact each other’s lives for years to come. My door will always be open for you, whenever you need it.
I love you, my high school students.
School Principal Retirement Message
Good morning, it’s June, a month that seems to get hotter with each passing day. It’s a hot summer day, and I wonder if you are living happily today? The humidity is higher than usual, which makes me guess that the rainy season is about to start. The sky is greeting us with a sunny face, which is probably not what we expected. Just like the flow of nature, every moment of our lives is unpredictable, but the journey of finding small happiness and fulfillment along the way is the true joy of life.
The weather has been hot and humid lately, but it’s important to take care of yourself and pace yourself. Drink plenty of water to avoid heat exhaustion, and do some light exercise to keep your stamina up. I’ll check off my to-do list for the day and try not to procrastinate. I’d like to thank all of our guests for taking time out of your busy schedules to join us today. Your encouragement and support has given me the courage and strength to make it this far, and it’s what fuels my passion for every day.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my last words with you on this great day. During my time as principal, I have worked tirelessly to make our school and our students better, and I have learned so much along the way. The good and the not-so-good are all memories that I will take with me and cherish. Leaving is not the end, but the beginning, and I see it as a moment of new possibilities for me and for our school, and I am taking it as a challenge for another beginning, not the end, so I hope that you will see me off with laughter and applause rather than tears, so that my last day will not be a bittersweet one.
Today, I am very pleased to have the opportunity to serve the development of education at ○○ High School, a historic place of education, and I would like to express my gratitude to the teachers, students, and parents who have been here for so many years. Thanks to their trust and care for each other, ○○ High School has become one big family and we have been able to explore the right direction of education together. In recent years, changes in the education system have been occurring very rapidly, such as the issue of school violence, infringement of teaching rights and the crisis of public education, diversification of curriculum and school education including the implementation of the five-day school week, and organizational reform. At this time, I felt the weight of the responsibility entrusted to me and made every effort to face the changing paradigm of education correctly.
Especially when I look back at the recent education issues, I realize that there are many directions we need to go and many challenges we need to solve. It is important to support students to realize their individual characteristics and full potential without losing the essence of education, and we need to strengthen communication and cooperation between teachers, students, and parents to create an educational environment where everyone is satisfied. It has been my greatest mission and goal as an educator to further consider the role of teachers and schools to respect and support the growth and individuality of each student. I am deeply grateful to the teachers and students who have worked together to achieve this goal.
Jeff Raikes, MS Vice President, said that we need to be able to see the good news that follows bad news: “People are afraid to deliver bad news. But bad news sometimes provides the most important information to improve the performance of a business. I’ve made it a rule to always ask for both good and bad news, and to ask for the bad news first, so that we can identify challenges and discuss what needs to be improved.” Not to mention that my departure is probably a better opportunity for the school and its students. I try to look at it in a positive way, like water that stands still rots, but only when it flows does it keep living things alive.
I sincerely hope that our ○○ High School will emerge as a prestigious school in the region under the guidance of the principal who is coming on my behalf. I am grateful to the many teachers and students who have always helped me along the way, and I have always considered the first mission of educational administration to be dedicated service. I will continue to strive to communicate freely with students where they need me, and to remain an educator of one who is helpful to them. I will continue to listen faithfully to the voices of the school site and the educational family. This is not my last greeting, but rather the beginning of my journey in a new place. I hope you will support me in my new endeavors.
After my departure, I plan to continue my education-related volunteer work in the community. Having spent most of my life in the field of education, I would like to use the experience and knowledge I have gained here to create opportunities to help more people, share the power and value of education with more people, and contribute to the betterment of the educational environment in our society. It has been my great honor and happiness to serve you all. It’s with tears in my eyes that I’m finally leaving this place, but I’m going to end my speech. I sincerely wish you all good health and happiness today and tomorrow. Thank you.
Example principal retirement greeting
Good morning, everyone. Even though the warmth of spring is coming, the wind is still cold. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the guests, faculty, staff, and parents who have taken time out of their busy schedules to come and celebrate my retirement. My heart is filled with a mixture of joy and regret as I stand here today.
When I first started teaching and saw my seniors reaching retirement age, I looked up to them with great admiration, and retirement age seemed like a distant memory, but time has flown by and I am here today to say goodbye. Looking back, it seems like just yesterday that I started my teaching career, and time has flown by like a clear stream to where I am today. I owe my dedication to the education of our students to the advice and encouragement of my seniors, colleagues, and parents, who have always been there for me. I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude.
My teaching career has been a mixed bag. There have been many highs and lows, and at times I have faced challenging situations, but seeing my students’ smiles and watching them grow has made it all worthwhile. Seeing the small changes and accomplishments they make as they grow has taught me so much more and made me feel very rewarded as an educator. As such, I have gained so many experiences and valuable lessons throughout my teaching career, which I am sure will be a great asset in my future life.
I would also like to thank my wife for her unwavering support. I think it is thanks to her understanding and consideration that I have been able to get to this point in my life, when I was focused on my teaching career and paid less attention to my family. Now, as a loving husband and a good friend, I plan to spend more time with my wife and spend the rest of my life with her. I plan to enjoy leisure, travel, and build memories with my family that I have not been able to do so far.
As I leave, I’d like to make a simple plea to our junior faculty: wherever you are, I hope you always have an “ownership” mindset. I want you to be that responsible owner in this place and in this moment. For example, I want you to take ownership of small inconveniences in your school or small problems in your students’ daily lives. These small actions will add up and make a big difference to our school and our students, and we hope that you will teach this sense of ownership to our students as well, leading them to become responsible and conscientious members of society.
I also want them to realize that satisfaction and happiness can be found in the here and now, rather than far away. True happiness can only be found by doing your best where you are and living in the present moment, and it is my sincere hope that this attitude will be instilled in every student and staff member of our school.
In conclusion, I would like to wish the continued development of ○○ Elementary School and the health and happiness of all those present here today, and I would like to bid you farewell. Thank you, everyone, from the bottom of my heart.
Retirement thank you message from the teacher representative
Good afternoon, everyone. The weather is forecast to warm up this afternoon, but it’s still chilly. I hope that even though the temperature is low, everyone’s hearts are warm.
I remember the first time I saw Principal ○○○. On my first day at the unfamiliar ○○ Elementary School, she handed me a cup of hot tea and said, “I’m cheered up because we are juniors in the same school.” She has been a great support to me since that moment.
Principal ○○○ is a person who values the depth of relationships and the time spent together and treats people with sincerity. She respects and remembers everyone’s life, regardless of their experience or age, and always extends a warm hand in times of need. The way she treats her students as family and dedicates herself to their growth has touched all of us.
Your care and affection were always attentive, and all of us here have been the recipients of your warmth over the years. We are grateful for that, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank you from the bottom of our hearts today. Among your teachings, your teachings on teamwork and preparation have resonated with us and will be deeply etched in our hearts.
I remember when we won the staff athletic competition not long ago, the principal said, “Today’s joy is not the result of the efforts of a few people, but of all the teachers who cheered and filled the seats with one heart.” This statement taught us the importance of teamwork. It reminded us of the importance of teamwork.
He always emphasized the importance of being a prepared teacher, and he always encouraged us to practice every vacation, saying that the skills and mindset we develop will pay off in the long run. He was very down-to-earth and friendly, and we all became a part of his family.
We are sad to say goodbye to you now, and we will always remember you for your sincere and pleasant words and your dignified demeanor.
We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and new dreams to paint another generous landscape. I would like to end this farewell speech by expressing my deepest gratitude to Principal ○○○ for walking the path of a teacher without wavering. Thank you.
Chairman’s retirement ceremony Greetings from employee representatives
As we move into 2023, no matter how much we regret, no matter how much we miss, there are things that must go. Like flowing water, like passing years, like a life that never ends. It’s mid-November, the sun is setting on 2013, and the weather has turned so cold that it’s hard to put your hands out without gloves.
Mr. Chairman, are you sad to see the years go, or are you excited for what’s to come? I’m feeling nostalgic, and it seems I’m not the only one. I’m even more saddened to see you leave in a hurry, as if you’re leaving your heart behind in your busy steps. Mr. Chairman, I don’t know where you’re going, but I wonder if you’re leaving too quickly.
You have accumulated so many beautiful things, shouldn’t you take love and affection along the way? If you are leaving something precious behind, please let go of the parting for a while and leave love and affection behind.
Looking back, we suddenly found ourselves in the middle of middle age, not by chance, but by fate. Looking back on the past two years of running with you, we are standing here with the same passion as before. It’s been a short time and a long time, but the memories we’ve made together are truly precious.
I don’t think they were the best moments, and just like a dead battery needs to be replaced with a new one, I hope that instead of dwelling on the past, you will cherish the most meaningful moments right now. The time that has passed is like a river that never returns, and it’s important to think about what kind of mindset you want to have for the time to come.
Life is not “until now”, but “from now on”. Mr. Chairman, you have been a wonderful man. Thank you, and I love you with all my heart.