By Joy Morrison, Ash Fossey, and Eleanor Chao, 2029
As he finishes out the year, three student-writers met with Mr. Peter Jacob-Dolan to discuss some of his reflections on his time at Bedford Public Schools. Below is the transcript of that interview. Best of luck in the future Mr. J-D!
The Lookout: How long have you been teaching in Bedford?
Mr. Jacob- Dolan: 26 years both middle and high school.
Lookout: What was the difference between teaching in middle school and high school?
J-D: The levels of energy are very different, the middle school students have more energy.
Lookout: Which one did you like best teaching at, the high school or middle school?
J-D: Both had their advantages. There was more learning independence and growth opportunities at the middle school, but at the high school teachers can focus more on higher level learning and address complex topics in fun and different ways.
Lookout: Why do you have so many ducks around the room?
J-D: Sixth grade had a writing assignment to describe the ducks. Over the years, people started to bring me ducks, and the tradition moved to the high school.
Lookout: What classes have you taught?
J-D: A wide age, content, and ability range, but all English classes
Lookout: What are you going to pursue after your time here at BHS, and why?
J-D: I will continue teaching at a private school in the area. After so many years with a similar work experience, I feel like I needed a change.
Lookout: What will you miss most?
J-D: My students and colleagues
Lookout: What are some of the big changes across your time here?
J-D: Phones, AI, and expectations are the obvious big ones. A smaller but still significant change is students picking levels for class. Some students who might not be able to handle the coursework in an advanced section might take that level and struggle, instead of requiring students to test in and show they are prepared for the work.
Lookout: What is something that you have learned at Bhs that you want to bring to your next job?
J-D: Approach on assessments and better feedback for students
