Beloved math teacher Peter Decraene is retiring this year after 37 years of teaching. Throughout his career in education, Decraene has strived to embrace an optimistic mindset.
“I have to smile,” said Decraene. “I always try to find the humor in what’s happening around me.”
Decraene’s commitment to his students stems from his passion for teaching, since many of his family members are educators. He has been teaching math at ETHS for 29 years.
“I learned more in my first semester here than in my previous eight years. The math department is and has been amazing since I got here,” said Decraene.
Teaching has changed significantly since Decraene began teaching nearly four decades ago. When he started, technology was nowhere near as involved in education but is now an
integral part of everyday life.
“The greatest difficulty is trying to teach students on their cellphones,” said Decraene.
Despite obstacles, Decraene’s outlook is overwhelmingly positive.
“Being a teacher is hard, but it’s so much fun. Even on a bad day of teaching, somewhere during the day, there’s been a good moment,” said Decraene. “There’s always something good if you keep your eye out for the joy.”
Decraene’s enthusiasm for teaching is evident.
“One of the things I really love about teaching is that every student is different, and there’s something to like about every single kid who comes in front of me,” said Decraene.
Decraene works to connect with every student he encounters and has formed valuable relationships over the years.
“Sometimes, it’s just the strength students have to keep coming to school when their home life is in bad shape. Sometimes, it’s their ability to put ideas together. Sometimes, it’s their creativity and humor,” said Decraene. “I find something to like about everybody.”
Outside of teaching, Decraene spent three years as a department chair.
“I’m proud of the work I did for the department. It had a lot of impact on many teachers,” said Decraene. “It was fun while it lasted, but I had to teach a class.”
While Decraene is retiring this year, his impact on students will not be forgotten.
“The most rewarding part has been working with amazing students and teachers,” said Decraene. “I’ll miss that the most.”
