Preparing for the School Year
North Quincy High School staff return from summer break on Tuesday, September 7th. While many prepare their classrooms, share stories of summer adventures and welcome new faces to the staff, I will begin my journey to Antarctica. It seems fitting that these events take place on the same day. The only change I had to make to my calendar was the job title. Instead of classroom teacher, I will be a PolarTREC teacher/researcher for 6 weeks. But just because I am traveling thousands of miles away from Quincy, I have not forgotten my duties. I have spent weeks planning and preparing my classroom for the new students that will be with me this year. With the help of the wonderful Mrs. Meghan Doyle, I know that students entering Room 431 will have a great start to the school year. Although I will not be there on the first day, I look forward to meeting them all in October when I return.
North Quincy High School classroom 431 is prepared to great students next week. This year, however, PolarTREC teacher Cara Pekarcik will not be at the door with a smile and a warm welcome - she will be heading to Antarctica!
Student Involvement
During my expedition, students have the opportunity to read my journals and ask questions about the location, the science, etc. As part of this opportunity, each student in my class will receive instructions on how to read and comment on my journals. I look forward to hearing from these students and answering their questions. In addition to my students, members of the local community, as well as teachers, friends and family from many different states will keep the conversations going. These journals are my tool for communication and I hope to use them to help everyone learn more about the amazing location and the important research.
Students in Ms. Pekarcik's classes will spend time reading and responding to journal entries.
See You Soon NQHS
I left North Quincy High School for the final time today - until late October. It was a strange feeling to say goodbye to staff and students that were in the building. On one hand, the excitement was palpable. On the other, I am sad to miss the first few days of school, to coach the girl's volleyball team, to see my friends and to share in the excitement of the new school year. I wish everyone at North Quincy a fantastic start to the school year! I look forward to speaking with you all during my PolarConnect event in early October and I can't wait to share my pictures, videos and stories with you when I return in late October. Thank you for all of your support and enthusiasm - I couldn't ask for a better place to work!! LET'S GO RAIDERS!
The new electronic sign outside North Quincy High School reads: Good Luck Ms. Pekarcik On Your Antarctic Adventure!!!
This is the view from PolarTREC teacher Cara Pekarcik's parking space. This view won't be seen again until late October.
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