Karen Finklang, SSD CBVI/Career Training/Coop Teacher at Maplewood Richmond Heights Senior High School is retiring after 13 years in the MRH School District (seven at the Elementary and six at the high school).
Finklang was one of three retiring MRH teachers who answered questions about their teaching career. Finklang's answers are below.
What will you miss the most about teaching?
I will miss the daily banter with the exceptional staff here at MRH, and the creative environment embedded in teaching. My students have inspired me in so many ways....I will miss each of their unique personalities.
What is the biggest change in education/teaching since you started?
The biggest change I've noticed in education over the course of 24 years in the field would be the emphasis on cooperative collaboration within the teaching staff and in each classroom. What a difference in this approach to teaching and learning compared to the days of yore.
Do you have a favorite student/class that stick with you?
My favorite class would be my CBVI (Community Based Vocational Instruction) work experience class. My students had the unique opportunity to learn job skills in a real life work environment and practice their social skills with the general public. This opportunity has enhanced each of my students growth and will serve them well for life.
What are you most looking forward to about retirement?
I am looking forward to many things in my retirement.....namely TIME! Time to do many things, such as travel, read, exercise, garden, take photography classes, and enjoy life!
Thanks for all the memories!
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