The senioritis has finally set in, and Beaver Area High School math and finance teacher Mr. Tom Driscoll is taking his exit.

After teaching math and Financial Fitness for 20 years at the high school, Mr. Driscoll has decided the time has come to enjoy his retirement.

Let’s get to know some more details about him before he leaves . . .

When did you start working at Beaver Area?

I began my career at Beaver Area in August 2005

What did you do before working at Beaver Area?

I worked in international transportation. My company owned ships and my job was to fill the ships with exports. I would call on large international exporters and persuade them to use our ships for their exports. Then I would be involved in getting the exports to the ports via truck or railroad or both. Before that I worked in sales for a financial company selling mutual funds and insurance.

What are your plans after retirement?

I plan to try making money trading options. I will learn more details about options, then try trading options with fake money. If I am successful, I will trade options with real money. In addition, my wife and I are going to buy an RV and travel across North America.

What will you do to relax and take time for yourself?

I enjoy and will be reading (mostly action CIA type books), watching TV, golfing, biking, hiking, traveling, watching live music, and hanging out with my family and neighbors.

What is a favorite memory that you have during your time at Beaver Area?

One of my favorite memories coincides with one of the more difficult times in my life. When my son was seriously ill and hospitalized for 76 days [last year], my coworkers were unbelievably supportive and generous. The emotional (and gift card) support was something that meant a great deal to me and something I will never forget as long as I live. I also received tremendous compassion and support from many students. This support also meant a great deal to me.

What is the biggest piece of advice that you can offer for students and staff?

I think that all the students and teachers need to always remember that their attitude can affect many parts of their lives. A positive attitude goes a long way in making life more enjoyable. Nobody can take your attitude from you; it is yours to control.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned from being a teacher at Beaver Area?

That I’m not worried about the future of our country. I have seen a lot of amazing things from a lot of amazing students, and I am sure they will come through and make the world a better place.

What is something that you will miss about being a teacher at Beaver Area?

I will miss the camaraderie I have enjoyed with the amazing teachers I worked with for the past 20 years. I will also miss working with the great young people I had the privilege to teach.

Beaver Area thanks Mr. Driscoll for all he has done over the years and wishes him a lovely retirement.