Seeing as though school starts next week, Sopris Sun youth reporter Victoria Gautier tells readers about one of her favorite teachers at Carbondale Middle School ahead of entering the ninth grade.
Nick Forbes is an eighth grade social studies teacher at Carbondale Middle School (CMS). He is also a soccer coach for the high school. Take it from one of his former students, he can be serious and funny.
He was born at Valley View in Glenwood Springs, but he grew up in Carbondale. His parents lived on campus at Colorado Rocky Mountain School, and so did Forbes during his early years.
In his free time he likes to go rafting with his friends or sometimes by himself. He also plays a lot of soccer, and has played in a local league. He likes to play the guitar, also solo or by a campfire with friends. And, to no surprise, he likes to read and learn a lot about history. During the summers, Forbes works as a rafting guide.
When Forbes was a little kid he wanted to be a receiver for the Denver Broncos. In high school, he decided he’d be a soccer player for Brazil.
But he was fated to become a teacher. His mom was a kindergarten teacher for about 40 years and his dad worked at CRMS. Having grown up around teachers, he liked the idea of lifelong learning.
After Forbes graduated from college, he put his dream to become a professional soccer player aside and focused on becoming a social studies teacher. He loves to see students learning, and that he gets to continue learning history.
He has worked at CMS for two years, going on three. After he graduated from college, he worked every day as a substitute teacher in different schools in the area. From there, he taught at the Riverview School before transitioning to CMS.
So he tried it and he liked it. Because he enjoys teaching so much, he sees himself being an educator for a long time. But, he added, it can be difficult.
Planning a good lesson takes time. Plus students can talk a lot, even off subject at times, so the class may not get as far as it’s supposed to and get behind sometimes. He has to balance students’ different progress, making sure some kids get extra support when necessary. In the fall, between coaching a state-champion soccer team and teaching, he may struggle to find time for himself, but at least he is doing what he loves.
Forbes said what he also likes about his job is getting feedback from the students and connecting with them regarding social studies or about how to be a better version of themselves. Basically, his favorite thing about being a teacher is being able to do his part for the community.
Have a great year, Mr. Forbes, and go Rams!