At the end of this year, we will be saying goodbye to a hard-working and loving teacher at WCHS–Mr. Merrill. However, before we say our final goodbyes, we wanted to ask him a few questions about his years as an educator.

Where did you attend college?

Asbury University.

How long have you been teaching?

29 Years.

How long have you been teaching at WCHS?

29 years in the same room. Around the 80’s kick, there were murals all over my room. I had a rainbow that went around my walls and attaching classroom doors.

What was your most memorable moment at WCHS?

A student in my military history class saw a spear without a sharp point on it, and of course, he challenged me by saying, “Bet you wouldn’t throw that spear at me,” so I said, “Put your hand out.” The stick went through the wall and put a dent in the whiteboard that stopped it.

What has been your favorite part about WCHS?

Well, I subbed in Fayette County when I started teaching, but it was awful because there was no sense of community. When I came here, there was a sense of community within the students and the teachers. Teachers are friends here, and I can tell we care a lot more about our students and that’s also easy to take for granted.

How did you come to the decision of retirement?

Basically, I’ve been planning to retire when my son graduates from college. My son graduates the 10th of this month. I don’t think people realize that teachers should be young; they connect with the culture more and can relate to the kids better than someone that’s older.

What’s the hardest thing about retiring?

Nothing. I’ve seen lots of teachers retire. I don’t admire myself as “Mr. Merill the teacher.” Doing a really good job and having integrity influences a happy and productive community. I’m not going to really miss much other than human interaction.

What’s the number one thing you have learned over your years of teaching?

Education is the most important thing that you can have in your life. It lasts forever– you’ll never stop getting educated. You decide what you want to do and educate yourself to do it later, whether it’s through college or trade school, but always chase your education to fit you.

What have you loved most about teaching at WCHS?

Probably turning kids to education and getting kids interested in education.