TEACHER'S CORNER: PLAYING GAMES IS ALL PART OF DAY'S WORK FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER

JACKSON -- Be understanding. Be genuine. Be honest. Be enthusiastic.

These four ideals demonstrate Josie Glueck's basic philosophy on teaching, as does a fifth principle -- be active.

Glueck is a 15-year teaching veteran working at Jackson Middle School. The physical education teacher said she works to keep herself and all students as active as possible on a daily basis.

"My goal is always to get as many involved as possible while trying to incorporate the concepts of sportsmanship, self-esteem and fitness," said Glueck. "I wish I could stand outside all day and play games, but I truly wouldn't want to do anything else."

Three years ago, Glueck helped to develop an intramural program that allows organized play during lunch periods. More than 85 percent of students and many teachers participate in the daily games, which are supported by a student-manned concession stand.

"They believe in the program. if they didn't it wouldn't be as strong as it is today," she said.

She also works with the summer physical education program at the high school. "It's there that I delve into my second love, which is step aerobics," she said. "High school students give me a whole new perspective and challenge me to be creative."

Glueck said physical education teachers work in a unique learning environment. Students have to sit still long enough to hear the objectives and seem them modeled, but then "they're off." She said doesn't mind the resulting gymnasium noise or the squeals outdoors because the energy levels of children are contagious.

"The students keep you young," she said. "I have the best job in the world and I know it."