Many may know Mr. Chris Menard from room 253 as an information technology expert, a business concepts and careers teacher, a video technology connoisseur, or a consumer math aficionado. However, not many students know about his life outside of the halls of Stamford High School.  Apart from teaching a variety of different classes, Menard has two self-run businesses.

Menard originally came to Stamford High as a substitute for Mr. Peter Zezima about a year ago, but ended up staying as a full time teacher. Having a degree in business from Western Connecticut State University has really come in handy for this short-term teacher.

Menard started his first business, “Stage 18,”  in 2015, and is currently the executive director. “Stage 18” is a sound company, which provides sound services for people, including bringing various equipment like speakers, microphones, etc. to events. Events range from concerts to galas to anniversaries. Menard says his inspiration for starting this business was that he “used to rent out equipment from people all the time, so we thought it was best to just invest our own money.”

This simple observation turned into a successful business. A significant moment for Menard in this business was the 2016 Haiti Earthquake. His business helped out with a fundraising gala, and moments like these are what makes all the hard work pay off.

Menards’ second business, “Rocher Homecare,” a homecare service agency for seniors in need, got its start in 2016.  As the executive director, Menard lists some of the services provided by the company, such as assisting seniors with using the bathroom, bathing them, light housekeeping, meal preparation, respite care, alzheimer care, transportation, companion care, postoperative care, and end of life care.

Menard feels strongly for treating elders right and adds, “I wanted to provide quality care to elderly individuals.” Initially, Menard had started this small business because of having lots of experience in the field, but it ended up turning into a major business.

Sometimes we, as students, forget that teachers have their own lives outside of the classroom. Who would have known that Menard lives a double life as a hardworking and dedicated business man?

If you know someone who is in need of homecare, please visit https://www.rocherhomecare.com/.