Hrachik Sardarbegian, who has been at Hoover since 1999, is retiring.

Before coming to Hoover, Sardarbegian, an administrative assistant, worked at Columbus Elementary and Glendale High School. She eventually came to Hoover because her children attended the school.

Her oldest son, Henrik, graduated in 1999. Her second son, Gevik, graduated in 2001, and her daughter, Talin, graduated in 2008.

“I have had the honor of working for GUSD for 33 years, and 25 of those years were at Hoover. I decided to retire to have more free time for my family, hobbies, passions, and most of all, traveling,” Sardarbegian revealed.

Keristineh Zakarian, one of Sardarbegian’s colleagues, described what it has been like having her at Hoover.

“For the short amount of time that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Ms. Hrachik since I’ve been at Hoover High School for two years now,” Zakarian said.

“She has been nothing short of helpful and kind, especially as a new teacher. She has helped me navigate through so many things, whether it’s a request to administration, counselors, or anything else I need. She is always there, and I really appreciate her for that. Regardless of what I need from her, I know that anytime I can go to her.”

Zakarian also emphasized that Sardarbegian’s support extends far beyond the front office.

“Even when I’m in the classroom, often when I have a problem or there is something I need, she’s someone who comes to mind because she’s just that helpful. There’s a reason why they call her ‘The Heart of Hoover,’ and I truly believe that she is the embodiment of that. I have nothing but respect for her and all the years she’s dedicated to the field of education,” Zakarian added.

Zakarian also reflected on how she feels about Sardarbegian retiring.

“I’m definitely sad to see her go. I don’t know what Hoover would look like without her. I’m so used to seeing her, and I know she is one phone call away, so it does make me sad to think that she is not going to be here. But I do wish her well, and I hope she enjoys her retirement, as well as all the new endeavors she decides to take on,” she added.

As colleagues reflected on the impact Sardarbegian has had at Hoover, Sardarbegian herself shared gratitude for the people and experiences that made her years at the school so memorable.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for making my time here meaningful. I’ve learned a lot, grown a lot, and worked alongside some truly great administrators, colleagues, students, and parents,” Sardarbegian said appreciatively.

“I will leave Hoover with a full heart and lasting memories. Hoover was, is, and will always be my second home.”