At the end of the school year, a familiar teacher and coach will be leaving Westside.

From planning to stay for only 5 years to teaching in the district for another 30, physical education instructor Doug Krecklow has met the requirements for an early retirement. He will be taking advantage of his severance package to spend more time caring for his wife.

Krecklow says he will enjoy not having to plan lessons for classes, however, there are many things he will miss in return.

“This is family for me. I’ve been here for 34 years so I’ve seen great changes not only in structure of the building but in the passion that I believe the teaching staff has for students.”

He also hopes to continue coaching with the club swimming programs in Omaha.

“I don’t know for sure which direction the coaching will go, but I do intend to continue coaching in some way.”

Krecklow lead the swim team to earn 9 girls and 11 boys state titles.