Michael Rowe has been a teacher at Portsmouth High School since 2001. Over the years, he’s taught almost every math class there is, along with advising the school’s math team for multiple years. 

Rowe most enjoys “working with kids and seeing that ‘aha’ moment when kids get it.” He commented that he’s “just a nerd” and will miss being at school.

“Mr. Rowe challenges his students to be critical thinkers, ask questions, and go above and beyond to demonstrate knowledge and learning,” said Amanda Moore, another math teacher at PHS.

Moore mentioned how Rowe would often give her “challenge problems,” saying she has yet to solve the one remaining on her board. As a final send-off to Rowe, Moore said: “We wish you the best in retirement! Thank you for your commitment to our students and the math department over the years!”

After he retires, Rowe plans to continue learning math. He is excited to explore more of New Hampshire, mentioning that he wants to go to many places he has heard his students talk about, but has never gotten to visit. He also has four grandchildren whom he would like to spend more time with.

Rowe added that the best life lesson he has learned while working at PHS is that “nothing is absolutely critical to be done today; we just have to be done by the end.” 

To the next teacher in his role, he advises them to “be patient, realize that no two classes are the same, and have fun.”