Timothy Corica '78

Keep your eyes on the prize, the prize being the students in front of you. Imagine a life in which you "only" ever are a classroom teacher and focus on that. If you do it well, and stay focused, you will find yourself tapped to serve in other ways (administration, etc.) and will take pleasure in this. On the other hand, if you teach students but are focused on "advancement" to the "next level", you may succeed, but it will be a hollow victory. Teaching students should feel like the highest level of service.

TPP was always about the people. I had the blessing to be there with the legendary Henry Drewry, to be mentored by Ruth Wilson, and taken care of by Jacqui Swain!

For years after my graduation, whenever I was at a crossroads in my career, I would set up a time to go visit Ruth and talk it out. And when I wasn't at a crossroads, I would stop by her office, introduce my (then new) wife, and my young son, and just enjoy being with Ruth for a bit.

Today (5/20/22) I learned a new bit of math from my students. I've been teaching at the highest of high school levels for 44 years, and I learn something new either from my students, or from my thinking about how to present something to my students, or from my thrill at sharing something new with my students. I've learned something important from my students pretty much continuously for 44 years (and counting!). I teach at a Private/Boarding School. During my career I've been the Chair of Mathematics (21 years or so), Director of Technology (9 years) and Dean of Faculty (3 years).

One thing, in particular, I've learned over the years is the importance of relationships. Strangely, I think I formed my strongest connections with students early in my career (when I was closest to them in age and stage) and latest in my career (when I came to fully realize this lesson).

My amazing students! The wonderful blend of human interaction and intellectual challenge of the job is what keeps me motivated, passionate and excited about my work.

Class Year
2022