VOL. VIII, NO. 4
NOVEMBER 18, 1966

New Teachers Find Spirit Impressive

"The important factor in any school is that it offers the best education possible; that is why I like Maine West and am happy teaching here," comments a new English teacher, Mr. Robert Rupar.

Mr. Rupar is presently teaching sophomores and juniors. Another responsibility of his is being Maine's publicity director, which means he writes all the feature stories about Maine West for the local papers. Mr. Rupar previously taught for two years in New York State and in Japan for three years. He attended high school in Elkland, Pennsylvania. Mr. Rupar went to Mannsfield College, which is also in Pennsylvania.

Mr. Rupar was very impressed with the behavior of the students when he stated, "The discipline at Maine West is exemplary." However, he warns students, "My pet peeve is students who do not attempt to take advantage of what is offered to them and who do not develop their talents and abilities.''

"The attitude of the students toward school spirit is excellent, which I think is shown by the turnouts and the enthusiasm at both the pep rallies and the games," added Mr. Rupar.

Mr. Rupar enjoys traveling.

He has gone from coast to coast in the United States and has also visited the states of Alaska and Hawaii. Hesitantly, he decided that Boston is his favorite city in the United States. Mr. Rupar has been to the Far East four times. He spent this summer relaxing and honeymooning in Jamaica.


"The students are interested, well behaved, and grown up. Maine has a friendly atmosphere" were the first words Mr. John Amason spoke when discussing his likes about Maine West. Mr. John Amason, biology teacher of sophomores, is very contented with Maine and only dislikes the idea of having so many different colored passes.

The 5' 10", brown‑haired, blue‑eyed teacher loves traveling, hunting, and fishing. He has worked in Alaska as a big game hunter and fishing guide and has traveled to all but three of the states in the last five years.

He gave a thoughtful look and said with much concern, "I give all my students advice. ‑ Listen to teachers ‑ they don't always claim to be right. Students should stand up for their own ideas. While in high school, they should have as much fun as possible, but should keep in mind that the purpose of school is not to have fun but to get an education."

He is the freshman basketball coach and is hoping many boys will try out and students will attend the games and cheer. The reaction of the students toward the basketball season will decide for him how great the school spirit is.

He came to a conclusion about his teaching career stating, "I think teaching is a fine profession and the best a person can get into."


"The majority of the kids are enthusiastic and enjoyable to work with." This statement was made by Miss Judy Coddington, a new physical education instructor at Maine West.

Besides teaching freshman and sophomore P.E. classes, this brown‑haired, blue‑eyed teacher sponsors the G.A.A., acts as intramural coordinator, and sponsors camping and golf intramurals. In her spare time, she plays competitive volleyball and golf.

Miss Coddington has some advice for students. "Enjoy your high school years, but at the same time think of the future so you'll be able to enjoy it, too."

Miss Coddington expresses her opinion of school spirit in a single word, "Tremendous!" If there is any improvement needed, though, she is "sure Pep Club will think of it!"

As far as her dislikes about West go, Miss Coddington has none. Her only pet peeve is "students who do not work up to their capacity."

Miss Coddington was graduated from Indiana University and plans to complete her Masters degree by the end of the year at Michigan State University. Teaching at Maine West is Miss Coddington's first real teaching job, and she likes it.