Eric with his mom Melanie Schwarzbach
For Melanie Schwarzbach graduation is a big deal. Out of three children, Eric is she and Shaud's first to graduate from Big Sandy High school. As interesting as it all is, something else goes through Melanie's mind too. She has to go through this two more times!
Melanie had taught science at Box Elder High School for several years. This is her second year of teaching science in Big Sandy.
"I am glad I am here for Eric's senior year. I would never have known what was going on if I wasn't here," said Melanie.
What is so important to Melanie is with every milestone in her children's lives, that is the last time for that part of their lives. And the beginning of something new as well.
Eric is going to school at Montana State. He is the first to leave the nest. Even though Montana State is a long way away, it is all right for Melanie.
"He is absolutely ready to be out on his own," added Melanie.
Having a son in the same school as a mother works can be difficult at times. Melanie had this to say.
"It was a bit of a challenge for the both of us. I think it was more of a challenge for Eric than me but it was a lot of fun too."
Not only is Eric in the same school as his mother but he takes two classes from her. He takes physics and computer coding.
That can be harrowing as well but only once did Melanie have to ask Eric to leave the room. However, if you can help it, probably it is not a good idea to teach your son Melanie thinks.
Advice to others with seniors coming up?
"I have not lived enough to have lots of wisdom but communication is huge," said Melanie. "Lots of things we are not told that we should be told but the really big thing is not to get so caught up with the details and planning that you miss the joys of a son's senior year."
There is something about teaching your own children in a small school but there is something really great about small schools and especially the Big Sandy schools.
"Kids get a lot of personal attention. The only down side is there are some classes I have that if two people are gone I have lost half the class. I don't know how to balance this because I have a place I think I need to get to and I don't get there. That is the down side but on the up side when we are altogether we get a lot done."
Here is the thing. Having a son who is a senior is a new thing to Melanie, but you can count on one thing. After she has gone through this two more times, it will be like a science to her.
And that is very good for after all, Melanie is a science teacher!
