Mr. Connolley's Expanded "What Inspired You to Became a Teacher?"
"I tell people that I became a teacher on accident. That's really not an exaggeration. I was a newly minted college graduate with a Master's Degree in Anthropology, it's not like the job market was kicking in my front door. I wanted a job that would leave my summers free for digging season, I've always loved telling stories and jokes, and I probably saw Dead Poets Society one too many times. But I've stayed, because I love it so much.
I do know that I have been taught by titans. My grandfathers taught me hard work, their wives taught me patience. My parents gave me the greatest gifts I have ever received: A love for reading, and if I wanted to know something, look it up. I'll never know what kind of student I was of their lessons, but I think on them every day. I also think of the many teachers that I'm sure I gave sleepless nights and heartburn. But I suppose they all got the last laugh. I couldn't beat them, so I joined them."