Charlotte Latin School teacher retires after 50 years of service

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Dr. Ken Collins started his teaching career at Charlotte Latin School 50 years ago. This week, he’s ending it in the same classroom where it all started.

“It is a long time, but it is amazing how quickly it goes,” Collins said

It’s a moment so remarkable, the math teacher pulled out his 30-something-year-old tuxedo to celebrate. “I thought it would be great to end my last day teaching on a high note,” he said.

In five decades, Collins has taught thousands of students to problem-solve. He believes numbers help us understand the world, and math helps us understand numbers.

Collins said we’ve lived that during the pandemic with COVID-19 trends, hospital numbers and vaccination rates.

“I think this past year has been an excellent example of ‘when are we ever going to use this math?’ Right now we’re using it,” he said.

Collins is relieved to be able to teach his final lessons back in the classroom, but he said he also learned a lot with online learning.

Collins didn’t consider himself computer-savvy.

“This has been the most challenging year for me, in my entire career. It’s been a year in which the very old dog has learned a lot of new tricks,” he said.

The walls in Collins’ classroom are covered with mementos from over the years. Photos, cards and posters reflect on his legacy.

As he walks the hallways one final time, he’s reminded why he has stayed all this time.

“When it really comes down to it, it’s the people that I have worked with over the years that I’ll really miss,” he said.

Dr. Collins is planning to spend time with his grandchildren, who he hasn’t seen since the pandemic.

As an avid chess player, he’d also like to work with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools to develop a chess club at each public school in the county.

(WATCH: Union County teacher recognized for impact he’s making at alma mater)

Union County teacher recognized for impact he’s making at alma mater

Cox Media Group