Former Monroe High School cheerleaders reunite after decades to honor their inspirational coach and longtime English teacher Mrs. Musset Castle

Rochester, New York – A heartwarming scene unfolded this weekend at Monroe High School, where a group of former cheerleaders from the late ’70s and early ’80s reunited to honor the woman who shaped their high school years—Mrs. Musset Castle, a beloved English teacher and cheerleading coach who left a lasting imprint on generations of Rochester students.

Now 85, Mrs. Castle was all smiles as she stepped out of a limousine, greeted by the very same young women she once led through pep rallies, halftime routines, and classroom essays. The cheer squad, now all grown, came together not only to reminisce but to recognize Mrs. Castle’s decades of dedication to the Rochester City School District.

“This is awesome,” said Mrs. Castle. “They remember things I said years ago, things my mother and grandmother used to say to me, and it makes me realize I did a good job. I am just happy I helped them become the amazing women they are today.”

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Mrs. Castle’s teaching journey spanned several schools within RCSD, including Monroe High, Charlotte Middle, and Nathaniel Rochester Middle School. Whether in a classroom filled with literature or on the sidelines of a basketball game, she gave her all—always encouraging students to strive, lead, and believe in themselves.

As part of the celebration, the group toured Monroe High, stopping in hallways filled with decades of memories. They posed for photos, swapped stories, and laughed about old routines and class antics. But the most touching moment came when they presented Mrs. Castle with a Certificate of Commendation signed by RCSD Superintendent Dr. Eric Jay Rosser. The award recognized her “outstanding service and lifelong commitment” to the city’s students.

To honor her continued spirit of compassion, the alumni cheerleaders also made a $250 donation in her name to the Jordan Health Foundation. The gift reflected not just appreciation for her mentorship, but her example of caring for others far beyond the classroom walls.

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Though some of her former students hadn’t seen each other in decades, their shared history brought them back together like no time had passed. The reunion will stretch across the weekend, with a private dinner and more intimate celebrations planned to continue the tribute.

For Mrs. Castle, the gathering was more than just a walk down memory lane—it was a reminder that her work made a difference.

“She didn’t just coach us,” said one alum. “She taught us how to be strong, how to be confident, and how to carry ourselves with pride. That’s something we’ve all taken into our lives.”

It was a weekend filled with gratitude, laughter, and love—proof that one dedicated educator’s impact can ripple across lifetimes.