ROCKFORD, Mich. — As teachers get ready to head back to class, some are risking everything and taking a stand for public health.
A math teacher in West Michigan is using his early retirement to teach kids how to do math.
"Every year it gets to be about August and I can't wait to get back in the classroom," said Frederick Reusch or Fred, who is retiring after working as a math teacher at Rockford High School for the last 30 years.
But, as we all know, 2020 had plans of its own.
The pandemic forcing teachers like Fred Reusch, 72, to go virtual.
"I've loved all my jobs, but this is the one where I have the most passion," he said.
After watching the virus spread and seeing the impacts it has had on American schools. Reusch spent the summer looking at how he could keep teaching and still protect his family's health.
He did the math and made the tough decision to retire early.
It`s a huge loss for Rockford, as Reush is beloved by his students, honored as one of the school's top educators during his time.
"I think I'm in the best job anybody could have, and I just don't want to stop doing it," he said.
Even though his time at Rockford has come to an end, Reusch is now pivoting, giving his time and knowledge in advanced placement calculus to any and all students -- for free.
"I have already set up my basement here so that I can make videos and teach. I'm looking for students who don't have another option."
The free class will teach students AP calculus using lectures and problems, getting students ready for the college placement test.
Anyone interested can sign up for the class by reaching out to Reusch by e-mail fredareusch@gmail.com or calling 616-951-2377.
