Osage City says goodbye to Mrs. Durkin
Article by Mariel Robert
As the end of the school year comes around, we start to think about all of the changes that will come next year. Will the new seniors have enough patience for the new “fish?” Will Ms. Gallagher and Ms. Crane stay for yet another year? How will the football team look? And who is going to fill Mrs. Durkin’s shoes – both her teaching and coaching shoes?
After being offered a job at Mission Valley High School, Durkin, OCHS teacher of 12 years, has decided to shut one door of her life to open a brand new one much closer to home. “I’m excited to go, but a little nervous at the same time,” says Durkin.
Mrs. Durkin will be teaching business and will also be the head volleyball coach for the Vikings. Like many of the upcoming volleyball seniors, Paige Pearson has played for Durkin her entire high school career. She says, “It will be interesting starting my senior year with a new coach, and I will miss Mrs. Durkin very much. But at least we will get to see her on the courts!” Thinking along the same lines as Pearson, classroom neighbor Mr. Bellinger says, “I hate it,” when asked about Durkin leaving. “She will be very, very missed,” he adds.
“My feelings are definitely mixed; it feels a little heartbreaking – it’s almost like I’m leaving a family here. But I’m still excited for the future,” says Durkin. Best of luck to Mrs. Durkin as she opens the door to the next chapter in her life. She will be missed!
The PowWow of Osage City High School 