This year marks Mr. Waterman’s final year of teaching. He has been teaching World Studies Honors, AP Microeconomics, and AP Macroeconomics for the past 20 years at Hinsdale South High School. Throughout his career, his expertise has helped many students grow in their understanding of social studies. 

Although Waterman is now an admired instructor, teaching was not always part of his plan. 

Originally, he had a completely different plan for his future. He planned to leave two years ago and “never thought about being a teacher when [he] was in college.” He planned to go into the financial sector, which he did for nine years. 

When he sold his companies, he signed an agreement that said he had to stay out of the financial sector for five years. 

“Since my degree was in economics,” Waterman said, “it made sense to become an econ teacher.” 

Now that he’s about to retire, Waterman feels content. 

“I’ve loved being a teacher, but I’m ready to move on,” Waterman said while expressing his post-retirement plans. “I have a lot of trips planned with my family. When I’m not travelling, I’m going to volunteer at various museums and charities.” 

Finally, some of Mr. Waterman’s highlights at South were when the school’s economics team won state, taking students to Europe over spring break, teaching thousands of kids to “think like an economist,” and working with his colleagues in the social studies department. 

Though he had an entirely different goal for his future, Hinsdale South’s staff and students are honored and grateful to have had a talented teacher like him and wish the best for his future.