First of all, I LOVE this picture of Scrimshaw. It's from today's staff baseball game (see below). Look at that smile! This is why we all love Scrimmy. The man is always ready for a laugh, always playing full out (and sometimes wearing funky hats).
Mr. Scrimshaw and I have had our disagreements in my 7 years at King George. We've had a few (not many) "contentious" discussions about what should be done for / about certain students. But there are two wonderful things that I can honestly say about this:
- I have never, ever doubted that Mr. Scrimshaws cares very deeply for the students at King George. Even when we disagree about something regarding kids, I am always clear that the place that Mr. Scrimshaw is coming from is: "how can I make things better / easier for this student". And you can not fault somebody for that!
- You know how when you argue with someone it can be a little awkward around them for a while (sometimes a good long while)? Well that has NEVER been the case with Mr. Scrimshaw and I. We have always had a great relationship. If anything, our disagreements have led us to understand each other a little better and brought us even closer together. This is a great thing!
Some of my favourite memories of Mr Scrimshaw:
- the technological marvel that is his office. How many monitors / TVs does he have operational in that place? Awesome!
- his sense of humour. He is known to leave bizarre items (a diaper? a rock?) in teachers' boxes (at least my box) from time to time. Unfortunately, I can not give you any more examples because...
- his tendency to stray into "inappropriate" subject matter. There is nothing I can share with you about this. Sorry. But it's all in good fun (and usually amusing).
- This story (shared with me by a student): "My dad was driving me to school this morning and we were coming across the Burrard Street Bridge. My dad says 'look at the idiot over there. He's riding his bike with no shoes, no shirt, and no helmet!'. 'Dad', I replied, 'that's my school counsellor'. Hahaha! But seriously - get a helmet, Mr. Scrimshaw!
- how much he loves King George and the people who go / work here. There is no bigger fan of our school, what it represents, and the people who make it such a special place, then Mr. Scrimshaw. It's hard to imagine him not being here next year!
I really admire you for the courage it must have taken to decide to "walk-away" for (at least) a year, Steve. I know that you are going to have incredible experiences with your mom and your partner. I know that you will see wonderful things in your travels. I know that you will accomplish many great things (specifically on your cabin and boat) that you will treasure for many years to come.
But I also know that you will be missed by many, MANY people next year. You have made a big difference in the lives of many students and I know that they are sad to see you go. And I am too...
All the best Mr. Scrimshaw!