The weather is changing and the sound of the final school buzzer is looming. For Weber Middle School physical education and health teacher Francine Clark, it is time to close the books.
Clark has been teaching for 43 years. She taught at Mary Louis Academy in Queens for 18 years. Clark has served in the Port Washington school district for 25 years. She taught Physical Education at Paul Schreiber High School for nine years. She stepped out of the teaching role to take on the position of chairperson and director of the physical education program for five years. She then returned to her full time teaching role, where she has been at Weber Middle School for the last 16 years.
Clark, as a health and physical education teacher, feels that she can really have an effect on a child and make a difference in their life.
“I always used to worry that physical education was where a student might feel bullied the most,” said Clark. “It’s the place I feel I have to make the safest.”
She feels physical education is a place where students can develop social interactions and fitness, as well as learn new skills. Clark has been known for her catchy quotes that she has carried all through her years of teaching.
“I don’t teach gym. I teach physical education,” said Clark. “There’s another reason to stay in shape.”
Some of the programs Clark has been involved with are the Step Aerobics Mall Show, where students bring their talents to the mall and demonstrate what they learned in class. Clark, along with Maria Giamanco and Michael Kane, were instrumental in bringing the Project Adventure Climbing program to the Port Washington school district. This helps give children the thrill and adventure of climbing.
“It’s all about creating memories for the kids,” said Clark. “That’s what they remember when they come back.”
Clark has many fond memories of her 43 years of teaching. What she treasures most is when a student comes back and thanks her for helping them. She also likes when students remind her of their fond memories. She enjoys recalling all the funny and innocent things the children have said over the years.
Her advice to young teachers is to be honest, open to learn new things and willing to help all students.
“Never give up on a kid and be consistent,” said Clark.
Clark has passed along her beliefs to her students. “Don’t compromise your values, and be true to yourself,” said Clark. “If you feel strongly about something, stick to your guns.”
Her plans for retirement includes spending time with her husband, boating, visiting friends in other states and trying to see the rest of the country.
