Haning
says goodbye to LJHS
[MAY
27, 2000]
Teachers,
both past and present, came to Lincoln Junior High School yesterday to honor a
man who has dedicated his life to teaching. Joe Haning, seventh grade geography
teacher and LJHS athletic director, is retiring after 36 years of shaping young
minds to learn, grow and succeed both in and out of the classroom.
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Haning,
a native of Hopedale, attributes much of his desire to teach to his
high school history teacher. "He made history fun," says
Haning. Inspired by his teacher’s kindness and dedication, he
enrolled at Blufton College in Ohio, where he earned his teaching
degree. Soon after, in 1964, he was hired on at Lincoln Junior High
School for a starting salary of $4800.
![](../images/052700pics/teaching2.jpg)
[Curt Nettles, principal, and Joe Haning]
But
it is clear that Haning is not in teaching for the money. He is
motivated by his devotion to the students, staff and parents. Over the
years he has served as a fifth, sixth and seventh grade teacher; track
coach; head teacher; and athletic director. "He’s so devoted,
he is here whenever the doors are open," remarks his wife, Janet.
"It’s obvious he enjoys teaching."
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Haning
says that interaction with the students is his key to effectiveness in
the classroom. "The more you know about the kids, the better off
you are," he explains, adding, "It’s (junior high) a tough
time for them…even the most rotten kids have some good in
them."
(To
top of second column)
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And,
as the world has changed during the past 36 years, Haning says he is
not only a teacher, but also a mentor and a father figure to many of
his students. "It’s important to be nice and remember they are
kids. Everybody wants respect," he says.
![](../images/052700pics/teaching3.jpg)
[Former LJHS faculty and staff honors Haning]
Principal
Curt Nettles calls Haning a "wonderful teacher" because he
has done so much for the students and parents of Lincoln. "He is
a wealth of information," explains Nettles. "He knows all
the kids and parents, and he knows more about this school than anyone
else."
![](../images/052700pics/teaching4.jpg)
[Present LJHS faculty and staff surrounds Haning]
His
influence is obvious through the many people who showed up to honor
him, which he calls a "humbling experience." Haning says
what he will miss most is the daily interaction with the students,
staff and parents. Following his retirement, he plans to continue to
serve as a substitute—as his dedication to learning continues.
[Katherine
Heller]
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