St. Michael's celebrates 40 years of Dr. Mack

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

Dr. Mack, Science teacher extraordinaire

Dr. Mack, who teaches Science to grades 10 through 12 at St. Michael's School, was celebrated by his students and fellow faculty members on the afternoon of Thursday, March 24.  The affection and respect accorded him was very much in evidence.

"Dr. Mack has taught some of your parents, he's taught some of your grandparents, and according to some of your parents they also hope that Dr. Mack is going to teach some of your kids, and some of their grandchildren," said Principal Don Kuchison.  "We basically hope that Dr. Mack is going to be around for a long time at our school  He's a good guy, a special person, and I know that over the years I've learned a lot from him.  He is a special teacher to have with us."

Dr. Mack seemed a bit reticent to be in the spotlight, while obviously pleased by the recognition, the sincerity of which was made clear by the overwhelming and spontaneous cheering by the assembled students assembled.

"I started teaching here, and have been teaching here the whole time," he said.  "I enjoyed it, and the years went by very quickly.  I've had a lot of great kids and a lot of great experiences over the time.

Student Amelia Woodard was enthusiastic in her acknowledgement of his efforts as a teacher.  "Mr. Mack is an amazing teacher and he really makes you understand," she said.  "He uses examples to help you understand and it's really fun.  People come from different schools to have him teach them.  He's that good of a teacher.  He's an awesome science teacher."

A presentation was made to him by student Katrina Holoboff, and then he led an honour guard of students to the cafeteria, where a plentitude of 40th anniversary cake capped an afternoon of celebration.