Helen Burns, director of admissions at Gulf Stream School, is surrounded by a group of first-grade students. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star
When Gulf Stream School closes for the summer, Helen Burns will say goodbye to the staff and students just like she has for the past 13 years.
But this time, the adieu will be even more heartfelt. That’s because Burns, the school’s beloved director of admissions, is retiring.
And that prickly question about age? “Just say I’m old enough to retire,” she quips. And young enough to have the energy for a plethora of plans. The Bradford College grad has lots of things she wants to do, including decoupage, gardening and learning to archive.
“Gardening has been a big part of my life,” says Burns, who has lived with her husband, Robert, in Gulf Stream for 16 years. “In retirement, I would like to get my master gardener designation and take a course in archiving, as we have a collection of history from my family going back to the 1700s.”
But there’s even more on her agenda. “I am heavily involved [in] and currently president of the Florida Coalition for Preservation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve the quality of life on the barrier island. This organization works tirelessly 24/7 and 365 days a year to protect the island from poor [development] and over- development,” she explains. “They bring timely issues to the attention of voters and are engaged in educating the public on issues that may affect our towns. Without their knowledge and aid, it would be hard to sort out some of the more pressing matters that affect our day-to-day lives.”
She’s also serving on a board dedicated to “providing a proven educational program for students with language-based learning disabilities. It is our intent to bring a school to South Florida that has a proven record and a solid model for educating children with learning issues. It is a fascinating journey,” she says.
And, perhaps, the grandmother of two will find time to watch a rerun or two of Cheers. After all, she was the first manager of Cheers, the Boston pub that sparked the television show. “It was a lot of work and a lot of sweat equity,” she says. As for the show? “It was hilarious. I thought it was great.” And, we’re pretty sure everyone knew her name.
— Linda Haase
Q. Where did you grow up and go to school? How do you think that has influenced you?
A. I grew up in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh. I attended Sewickley Academy from kindergarten until ninth grade, when I went away to school in Connecticut. I then went to college in Boston.
Growing up in a small town allowed us to be very independent as children. It was safe. We played with others in the neighborhood, and our parents never worried about us. It was a great place to grow up.
Q. What professions have you worked in? What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
A. Almost too many to list. I worked for TWA as a flight attendant. I worked in the hospitality business for a while and then tried out banking. I finally found my place in admissions in 1991. My professional accomplishments are few, but I have personally gained so much from working with parents and children throughout the years.
Q. Tell us a little about your fondest memories at Gulf Stream School. How long have you worked there?
A. This is my 14th year at Gulf Stream School. I love working with the very young children as they are admitted to the school in prekindergarten and have remained here long enough to see those same grins when they graduate and move on to the high schools of their choice. It is extremely gratifying.
Q. What advice do you have for a young person selecting a career today?
A. Think out of the box. Be an entrepreneur.
Q. How did you choose to make your home in Gulf Stream?
A. I have been coming to Delray Beach to visit my parents since I was 18. I always knew about Gulf Stream and it just felt like the right place for someone moving from New England.
Q. What is your favorite part about living in Gulf Stream?
A. The unique character and charm of the homes; my neighbors. It feels as though it is a gated community without the gates.
Block parties!
Q. What book are you reading now?
A. The final book in the Ken Follett trilogy, “The Edge of Eternity.”
Q. Do you have a favorite quote that inspires your decisions?
A. “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.” — Judy Garland.
And, “Never burn your bridges” — my mother.
Q. If your life story were made into a movie, who would you want to play you?
A. Me — no one else would believe it.
Q. Who/what makes you laugh?
A. My son, Tyler, who is married and living in Chicago with his wife and two adorable daughters. He is hilarious and much smarter than I am.
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