Not only is there a different look to the high-school building this year, there are a few new faces. Just in case you happen by someone you don't know, here is a little background to help get yourself acquainted. If all else fails, try mentioning the weather. On second thought, just smile and offer a greeting.

Tim Gray, Math

Tim Gray is a proud graduate of Canaan Memorial High School and Norwich University. Mr. Gray first realized his desire for teaching when he began tutoring in college, especially in math. After graduating from Norwich with a 3.2 GPA, Mr. Gray returned to his hometown to pursue a career in teaching. His first choice being his high school alma mater, he was ecstatic when approached with the option of substitute teaching for the 2006-2007 school year. He also coached the girls' varsity soccer team. One year later, he was offered the head coaching job again, along with a full-time teaching position in the math department.

Mr. Gray was enticed by the small, communal feeling exuded by CMHS. He believes his youthful exuberance and first-hand knowledge of the area will allow him to more easily relate to the students. When asked how the school year has gone thus far, Mr. Gray emphatically replied with a wide grin, "GREAT!"

In the future, Mr. Gray plans to pursue his masters degree in education.

Jessica Labun, Science

Jessica Labun is another member of the youth movement within the CMHS staff. Ms. Labun is a native Vermonter, hailing from Newbury. She attended Vassar College, where she majored in biology and mathematics. She was able to coalesce her love for biology and interacting with children by entering the field of teaching. Ms. Labun began her teaching career at Mount Abraham Union High School in Bristol, student-teaching as part of the University of Vermont's masters and certification program.

Ms. Labun was drawn to CMHS by the small community atmosphere. She believes having a smaller student population will create closer student-teacher relationships. "It won't be long before I know everybody in the school. Instead of starting all over again with new students each year, I will be able to learn more about them and watch them progress as they go through high school." Ms. Labun has every intention to make good on that theory, as she plans to continue teaching for a long time. She desires to one day distribute a publication that compiles the plethora of scientific work done by Vermont students.

Although Ms. Labun stressed that she is very busy with her work, don't make the mistake of thinking she is just your everyday, run-of-the-mill teacher. In addition to her teaching prowess, she is the director of a Circus Smirkus camp in the summer. She admitted to being skilled in juggling, tightrope walking, and unicycle riding. So no clowning around will be permitted in her classes, though it may be critiqued.