Anthony Stewart, or Tony as we all know him, has been a consistent leader at South High School for over 35 years. His remarkable career at South is now being capped off with an induction to the South High Wall of Honor. He has worked in many different roles during his time at South, working with students in both academics and athletics, and giving his all to the South High community.
Stewart has had a lifelong connection to South High, not only did he attend, but his grandfather went to South, as well as his parents, his kids, and his grandson. When he was a student here, he was a three-sport athlete, playing football, baseball, and swimming. He has lived in the neighborhood his entire life, leaving only to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls from 1983- 1985, where he played Division 3 football.
When asked about what it means to him to be inducted into the Wall of Honor, he said, “I’m humbled, I’m blessed, I’m grateful.” He also said he couldn’t have done it without his family and his wife. He has found real community at South as he went from student to staff, “I like the interaction with the kids. I like the idea of watching students grow, you know, as people…There’s that progression of education as kids go, you know, all these little things that adolescents start learning as they get older, and [I love] to see them grow to be successful people.” His role at South lets him know kids on a deeper, more rewarding level. “I like the diversity of the kids. I like to be able to see people in a different light other than in school.” Also saying, “If I’m at the grocery store, I can see a lot of kids and a lot of families, you know. That’s really cool.”
Stewart has been both an Associate Educator and an Assistant Athletic Director for over 35 years and counting, making an impact on every corner of the school. He has also coached many South sports. He coached the football team for 14 years, as well as coaching JV baseball and softball. He often does thankless work as well, like working as the announcer for football and soccer games, and staying at the field until everybody gets home safely. He brings his bright personality to school every day, from wearing Godzilla-themed shirts every Friday, to doing the daily sports announcements at lunch.
He has given everything he has to South, and being recognized with a South High Wall of Honor induction is a testament to his impact. His career embodies the tiger spirit, and there couldn’t be a more deserving person for this recognition.