A New Nick in Town

The days are already crisp. I’m talking sub-50° mornings. I walk into the classroom and it feels good! But I run warm as a person. Most of my students, I imagine, are a bit chilly, especially during the first period of the day. It warms up though as the day progresses. But I really like that crispness. It’s 17:15 on September 4th and I can see some of the leaves making their changes. I can see hints of orange and red as they prepare to drop for the season. 

Speaking of seasons! Here I am – usually not a winter fan – teaching at a top-notch ski academy. Imagine that! As I follow the quarter-mile path from the academic center/dormitory to the dining hall, I overhear kids excited for winter. It’s funny listening about things I have absolutely no understanding of: bindings, equipment rooms, skicross, and waxing. As the daylight wanes (already!?) and the temperature drops from a high of 76°, I wonder what I got myself into. 

On the academic side, I’ve now had three days of classes. The first one felt like jumping into a pool and shuddering a little. By day two, I already felt acclimated though. After day three, I’m feeling pretty good. I know the material and the kids are very respectful and engaging. Two students were trying to ride one bike. I really only had to look at them, but I added, “What’s that policy about one kid per bike?” One kid took over and raced to his athletics practice. The other walked with me. He talked about working every weekend to pay for his ski trips. Are these kids well off? Definitely, but many of them work hard to pay for their own trips.

Outside of the classroom, I’m working on some personal plans. One of them involves writing this blog. Sometimes it’s tricky to decide on a topic. I’m not traveling for a little while until I’m really comfortable here. So that eliminates some content options. And I haven’t done a whole lot of creative writing. I think school will level out in a week or two and there will be a flow. The schedule is unique and I’ll have duties as a dorm parent, but there will be time for Nick activities. 

I think I may document, as well, the quirks that come with teaching. There are some good stories out there. For example, I’ve decided to join most of the faculty in assuming a first name basis. Students call me Nick. Well, Professor Doctor Nick…but Nick. It’s tricky at times, but I think it’ll feel natural at some point. However, in the hallway this morning a student of mine said, “Hi, Nick. How are you?” I replied positively…and so did another Nick walking just behind me. It turns out there are three Nicks here.

Things I’ll accept as gifts: teacher planners, one of those vertical AC units, Civil War posters, and famous people pictures.

Here’s a stream that’s lovely to sit by.