Coach and math teacher I.J. Pinkham has been at Boothbay Region High School since 1976. At the end of this year, he will hang up his calculator and protractor and leave his classroom 201 for the last time.

“There have been lots of changes in education. Technology, proficiency-based diploma, standards-based report cards. I can probably figure it all out, but enough's enough. It's time to do more things with myself,” Pinkham said.

For the last 15 years he has taught Geometry and Algebra II.

“Algebra II has a more challenging level of material, and can be more of a struggle for kids,” Pinkham said. “With the new ‘core’ period (also known as study hall) I can have students come see me who need help, and sometimes students come to me on their own. Before we had core, it was only before and after school kids could get extra help. I’ll miss that one-on-one time with students.”

While he won't be teaching anymore, Pinkham plans to continue coaching basketball.

“Well, I don't ski, so I need something to do in the winter,” Pinkham joked. “But seriously, I like coaching. I'm too old to compete physically but I can pass on my knowledge to the players and team and I enjoy the competitive play.”

Pinkham says he is “definitely not going to Florida” for his retirement, but staying in the community he loves.

“I'm not sure we (my wife Peggy and I) had any intention of staying 37 years when we moved here,” Pinkham said. “But it's such a nice community, and we kept hanging around. Our two sons were born here, and now one, Tim, is a lab manager at Bigelow and Matthew is a lobsterman.”

“We have three grandkids here and will get to watch them grow up,” Pinkham said. “This is home.”

When asked what he will miss most about teaching, Pinkham didn't even have to think for a second.

“The kids, no question,” he said. “The kids here are really good, very respectful of the faculty and each other. Not many teachers leave this school because it's such a good place to teach and a positive environment.”

“I love the kids. Get them involved and interested in math, stressing the importance of it. You never know what they are going to do and because of us — or maybe in spite of us — they make it through. I'm proud to have been a part of it.”

“Mr. Pinkham taught me both Geometry and Algebra II,” recent graduate Brenna Alley said. “He had a way about his teaching, and everything he taught just clicked in my brain.”

“I.J. Pinkham is the kind of teacher who stays with you,” said BRHS class of 2008 graduate Julie Higgins, who now teaches fifth graders at Edgecomb Eddy School. “He would do anything for his students. He inspired me to push myself and helped me do it with a smile on my face. I know he has made an impact on countless kids over the years both in and out of the classroom.”

“I’ve really enjoyed my 37 years teaching,” Pinkham said. “I’ve worked with a lot of good teachers and administrators. We were chosen as one of the top 10 schools in Maine and that is an indicator of the kind of teachers we have here. There is good stuff going on. I have appreciated the community’s support and the support of the school committee.

“I may come back and sub, who knows. I don’t sit around very well,” Pinkham said.

Pinkham was born in Milbridge, earned his master’s degree from the University of Southern Maine, and his bachelor’s degree at University of Maine at Farmington. Before teaching at BRHS, he taught at Buckfield High School from 1969 to 1976. He taught history, reading and mathematics, and served as assistant principal his last year there.

"I.J. Pinkham is the epitome of a professional,” BRHS Principal Dan Welch said. “He is loved by his students and respected by many. Everyone knows he is a legendary basketball coach, we at the school also know he is an amazing educator. We will miss him greatly while wishing him well.”