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Mrs. DePontbriand in action at the track.
photo by Abigail Newman
From Spanish Education to Physical
by Hayley Casper and Sara McCarthy
Our very own PHS Spanish teacher Mrs. DePontbriand
has switched roles in the school starting this year! She is now a Physical Education teacher, and is more excited than ever!
Mrs. DePontbriand is a multifaceted person. Last year, and for 15 years before, she had been a Spanish teacher here at Pembroke High School. This year has been the biggest switch of her career!
Here are some of the questions we asked her:
Q: How did you end up switching your position? Was it due to low staffing, or was it completely voluntary?
A: It was completely necessary for a change of pace and the fact that my other passion is definitely sports, health, and wellness. I have always played sports, when family members started getting sick, I realized how important it is to take care of yourself.
Q: What differences do you see in your relationships with your students?
A: I have been able to get to know students on a personal level, there's a lot more time to chat while we’re doing things, as opposed to exclusively speaking Spanish and expanding the language. I also have found less negativity in kids who don't like PE rather than in someone who doesn’t enjoy Spanish. There are more opportunities to get to know each other and much more range in a gym class.
Q: What are some advantages of being a gym teacher?
A: Outside all day in fresh air, is my ideal place to be. I'm always moving, and now getting paid to move and help others move. The wardrobe is definitely better now, and I have yet to find a disadvantage.
Q: So far, which do you prefer?
A: I’m only a month in so it's a tough call. I'm very happy, but would not say I was unhappy teaching Spanish.
Cam Voelkel and Will McNamara of the Titan Times with substitute teacher Mr. Zimmerman
photo by Hayley Casper
Sub Hub: An Interview with Mr. Z
Sub Hub: An Interview with Mr. Z
by Cam Voelkel and Will McNamara
Q/A With substitute teacher Mr. Zimmerman
Q: How many books have you finished so far this school year?
A: "Twelve Books."
Q: What did you do before you became a substitute teacher?
A: "I was a service manager at a Buick GMC dealership in Norwood."
Q: What has been your favorite part about subbing at Pembroke High School?
A: "Getting to know the students and faculty."
Q: What is your favorite class to sub for?
A: "I'd say Social Studies."
Q: How long have you been subbing and how much longer do you think you will sub for?
A: "This will be my fourth year and I will probably sub for a couple more."
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