Geometry/Algebra Two teacher Karen Smalley has had to take a leave of absence due to the birth of her second child, Kaitlyn Nicole Smalley.

“Mrs. Smalley is doing well at home with our new daughter Kaitlyn Nicole,” said gym teacher Dan Smalley.  She went into labor in the middle of the night and Kaitlyn was born just before school started on Wednesday, January 28th.  It’s been a lot of fun at home with Kaitlyn and our 2 year old daughter Kylie the last few days.”

In order to replace the vacancy, a new teacher was brought in. Ms. Hambacher is a graduate of the University of South Florida and Saint Petersburg College. “At USF I got my Bachelor’s in mathematics and at Saint Pete College I got my Teaching Certification.” It’s not common to find people who love math, but Ms. Hambacher is an exception.

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“Math is a constant that’s always building. Answers can be so concrete but the subject itself is abstract and beautiful.” Outside of teaching, Ms. Hambacher has a love for gymnastics. “I have coached gymnastics for over eight years. That’s my other love,” she said.  Ms. Hambacher also has her future well planned out. “I plan to apply for a full-time teaching position in the county next year, and if teaching does not work out, I would like to go back to school for my master’s and possibly more.” Going to a new work place can be stressful sometimes, but Ms. Hambacher has enjoyed her stay. “I love it here so far. The department has been so welcoming and helpful. They have made this transition seamless.