Celebrating a Local Teaching Legend

There is no other person like James Paul Tribble. In his 50 years at Everglades City School, generations of students have been shaped by his presence. His influence was in full view during the retirement celebration held on May 15, when dozens of guests broke into tears. Now, after half a century of teaching the community, he hangs up his hat, leaving behind a building dedicated to his legacy.

“Before school, during school, during free periods, like everybody said, groups of us would gather in his classroom—and yes, we talked about art and sports cars, but we also talked about life. About hard things, important things,” said Barbara Smallwood.

“Those conversations quietly shaped how young people walk into adulthood. His warmth made every day easier.”

There are no words that can properly illustrate his impact. Nearly a dozen people gave speeches, with tears in their eyes and joy in their hearts. The impact Tribble left was undeniable. It was clear, then, why Collier County Schools dedicated a building in his honor.

“It's my great privilege to recognize you, Paul Tribble, for 50 extraordinary years of service, dedication, and excellence in education. This dedication honors not only a career, but a calling faithfully fulfilled,” said Dr. Leslie Ricciardelli, Collier County Superintendent of Schools.

“May this building forever remind future generations that creativity matters, that teachers matter, and that one devoted educator can leave a mark that lasts far beyond a lifetime. So on behalf of the Board of Education of Collier County Public Schools, on behalf of the faculty of Everglades City, on behalf of the students and the families in the community, thank you.”

Tribble began teaching at Everglades City School in August of 1975. He was one of four new teachers employed by Principal Tom Chambers, along with Becky Wright, David Stump, and Fred Holbert. Since then, he has touched countless lives with his strength, love, faith, perseverance, kindness, and unwavering support.

The retirement celebration featured a cake that aptly proclaimed: “Mr. Tribble, the Man, the Myth, the Legend,” along with activity booths. One such booth invited guests to leave a green-colored fingerprint resembling a leaf on a large canvas of a tree, in tribute to the lives Tribble cultivated. Another booth hosted by a photographer snapped fun pictures, and towards the entrance was a “take what you want” stand of student artwork created during his class.

The presentation opened with an adaptation of the song “525,600 Minutes,” which honored the time Mr. Tribble dedicated to his students. A presentation showcasing each yearbook photo of Tribble was followed by one of his students, Eden Tish, addressing the crowd.

“You have made great memories for not just me, but other students over the years, and everyone will miss you. We love you, Mr. Tribble, and thank you for all you've done for your students.”

Many other speakers also shared their thoughts and stories. One humorous story came from Holly Dudley, Director of the Florida Stone Crabbers Association.

“We were battling the Florida heat, sweat, mosquitoes, and Mr. Tribble suddenly announced, ‘Someone forgot to put on deodorant and they smell like a buzzard!’ Immediately, every student began checking their underarms. As it turned out, it wasn't one of us students at all. It was Mr. Tribble himself. We called him the ‘Buzzard’ after that.”

Pastor Lynette Morris of Chokoloskee Church also recounted an anecdote of Tribble’s endless generosity.

“At Chokoloskee Church of God, when I was pastoring, you handed me a check that helped me to purchase a van for our kids. God has blessed you because you invest in children. You have more children than anyone that I know.”

Gerald Lewis, head basketball coach at Everglades City School and an alumnus, was also one of Tribble’s students back in the 80s. He was one of many students who felt at peace in his room.

“Your door, I can still see it. I'm sorry if I get emotional because it's emotional for me. I can still see your door, and it's like the welcome lounge now. Every kid that ever came through this place knew that Paul Tribble's door was open to them.”

Becky Wright, his coworker and carpool buddy, said she placed her faith in him during long and dangerous drives.

“We would be riding home, 80 miles an hour, during rain, in Paul's Corvette with no windshield wipers. I was not the least bit concerned if Paul Tribble was driving. And I figured, you know, He'll take care of him. So Tribble, I can literally say that you and I have been through fire and rain together and have stayed friends all these years. I’m so glad Tom Chambers hired us.”

While Tribble is retiring, he plans to return to campus on occasion. As for what comes next, he is keeping his future plans open, trusting in God's guidance during the next chapter of his life.

“God has a way of communicating that we don’t all fully understand. But I think he’s telling me it's my time to move on. I’m not fully gone, though. I’ll be visiting from time to time.”