by Rebecca Stussman ‘12

Returning teacher John Way helps junior Phoebe Kuwornu in Donna Thomas’ computer science class. photo by Paul Szewczyk ‘12

The computer science department lost a great educator and advisor on September 9 when teacher Donna Thomas prematurely left during her third year at Sherwood for work in the digital marketing industry. Fortunately, she has been replaced with a teacher who knows Sherwood and has vast experience with technology education. John Way, who taught computer science at Sherwood for 14 years before retiring in 2009, returned the Monday following Thomas’ departure to his original role as a teacher and sponsor of the anime club.

“I thought I would enjoy teaching again,” said Way of his decision to rejoin Sherwood. “I’m learning as I go, but I’ll get the hang of it. Everybody’s been very helpful, loaning me resources that I need to transition back … I think the year is going to go pretty well.”

Thomas taught six different courses and led five computer-oriented clubs such as game design, computer programming and women in technology. Way has taken over five classes, including Computer Programming one through three, Game Design and Web Design, and has also taken sponsorship of the computer programming club, game club and the anime club, which he oversaw before his break. He returns to a chaotic cluster of eager students to fill the void left by the loss of a well-respected teacher.

“She was the one who always pushed me to do [computer science] things. She’s one of the most dynamic teachers I’ve ever had,” said senior Vicky Wong of Thomas. Wong took AP Computer Programming Two, Web Design and Game Design with Thomas and now with Way. “Adjusting to the new teacher [is manageable]. I liked [Way] freshman year, so I was actually really happy that he came back. I think we were all kind of hoping it would be Mr. Way.”

Way left his teaching position at Sherwood three years ago due to the understandable exhaustion that accompanies 14 years as a high school teacher. “I was experiencing burnout,” said Way. “[Now] I’m just more rested and ready to go again.”

Because of Way’s substantial experience and the early nature of the switch, which occurred just three weeks into the year, the transition has been relatively smooth. Most students are passionate about computer programming and enthusiastic to learn from a teacher with Way’s experience and skills. Though Thomas will be missed, her classes and her anime club are in capable hands. Way has once again become a full Sherwood teacher and anticipates a successful year ahead.