This year we are welcoming a new staff member. Steve Bucket will fill the gap in the health department left by the departure of Mrs. Bradbury. Bradbury retired at the end of last school year, leaving the health department short a teacher as well as a department head. The role of department head is being filled by Todd Parness, former JV soccer coach. Parness no longer has the time to coach with his newly added responsibility, so the coaching position is also being filled by Bucket.
Bucket was previously a student teacher at Stamford High and is familiar with the functioning of the health/physical education department, allowing for a smooth transition. When asked what he enjoys most about being a teacher in full versus a student teacher, he replied, “The added responsibility and autonomy of teaching solo; it is easier to interact with the students as the only teacher in the room.”
As for the transition to department head, Parness said he will “miss coaching and having a full schedule,” since department heads have fewer classes to teach. However, he enjoys the added responsibility of keeping the health department running smoothly, organizing intramurals and supplying equipment for the department. “My responsibilities are different, there isn’t as much classroom work but much more running around and communicating with other teachers,” said Parness.
Bucket and Parness have been working together closely while adjusting to their new positions. Parness frequently gives Bucket advice regarding coaching, seeing as he has so much experience as the former JV soccer coach. This shows how seamlessly the staff of the health department works together, constantly assisting one another in any way possible. We wish Mr. Bucket and Mr. Parness the best of luck in their new positions.