TA News

Thetford Academy Science teacher Gary Engler will retire this year after 26 years in the classroom. Teaching was Mr. Engler’s second vocation (the first was social work) a mid-life shift that began when his own children started attending Lebanon, NH schools. As a parent, he became deeply involved in the school system, running weekly music assemblies, volunteering in classrooms, and chairing the Lebanon school board. It was work he loved, and that eventually led him to the Upper Valley Educator’s Institute to earn his teaching certification.

In 1999, Mr. Engler joined the Thetford Academy faculty as a Biology teacher. TA’s beautiful campus was a draw, but also the community. “I just immediately had the sense that it was a very, very warm, special place.” As a teacher, he brought a sense of wonder into the classroom, always enthusiastic about and excited to share his knowledge about the biological sciences. Looking back, though, Mr. Engler hopes he’s remembered not just for the interesting science, but “I hope they remember me as a not merely a good teacher or a fun teacher, but a kind teacher who cared about them.”

When asked about his favorite memories from his time at TA, Mr. Engler had many. One story he shared was about the time that he let Hunter Waterbury ’18 bring a Holstein calf to class. “I was joyous because growing up in Brooklyn, I grew up in public housing in city projects, directly across the street from the last dairy farm in Brooklyn. And I attribute that experience of just hanging out at the barn to awakening the love of nature in me. So of course, I said yes, you can bring in your calf, and didn’t get prior permission, and it worked out.” It was a hands-on learning experience the class will likely never forget.

Today, as his time at TA comes to a close, I asked Mr. Engler what he’ll miss most about teaching and it’s – of course – the students. “Unquestionably,” he said. “You know, years ago, on the last day of school, I was standing with Siobhan [Lopez] by the White Building, and I remember saying, ‘They’ll never know how much we love them.’ And she agreed. And it’s true.”

Congratulations and thank you, Mr. Engler, for 26 years of sharing your love of science and nature – and teaching with warmth, humor, and care.