By Lily Radwan, Year 12
Michael Sherman is a well-known secondary school English teacher who is retiring at the end of this year. He is well-known by his students for his interesting pos pos and neg neg disciplinary system. However, this is far from the most interesting thing about Mr. Sherman. The interview says it all.
1) How long have you been working at the school?
15 years.
2) What were some of your most memorable moments here ?
Some were in class and some outside of class. Some were unexpected moments of inspiration when teaching, as a lot of my work is spontaneous, but it’s hard to put my finger on it.
3) Are you happy to leave?
Reasonably happy.
4) What are you most looking forward to leave behind?
Not needing to get up in the morning!
5) What are your plans for retirement?
Going to England. I will transfer my son there too and continue with my hobbies such as writing and collecting things.
6) Are there any confessions regarding the school you would like to get off your chest before retiring ?
The story about the pigeons is true.
7) What would you change about the IB syllabus?
I would restrict Language and Literature to Standard Level. As it is, Language and Literature has become a cuckoo in the nest that has shoved everything else out.
8) What’s the worst part about being a teacher besides the grading and waking up early?
Report writing. It is ridiculous to write a report right after the parent- teacher meeting. You’re supposed to give your comments at the meeting.
9) Why did you decide to become an english teacher ?
I thought it would be useful to work with literature.
10) Where have you taught before?
I taught at a university and several secondary schools.
11) What was your favourite workplace?
I preferred being a language teacher at an industrial company because the syllabus was more flexible, hence I could teach whatever I wished to.
12) How well did you know Hugh Hefner?
I cannot comment on that question. I would not like to destroy people’s speculations and imaginations.
13) Can you tell us a bit about your playboy ring?
The playboy ring is connected to Hugh Hefner.
Wise Words : Use your time wisely and if there are two different times that you can do something, always do it the first time because then you’ve always got the second opportunity as well.
