San Mateo Adult School: Farewell and Thank You to Retiring SMAS Director Tim Doyle

Farewell and Thank You to Retiring SMAS Director Tim Doyle

After over thirty years of service to our school, Director Tim Doyle is retiring. (Click here to meet our new Director, Ms. Taylor.)

Tim's Story at SMAS

Tim with Staff and Students - holding roses
Eric, David, Mary, Student, Lily behind Tim

Tim started as an ESL teacher. Then he became ESL Coordinator - the job that Patricia has now. Then he became Assistant Director. Three years ago, when Mr. T retired, he was hired as Director. Each time he moved up the ladder, he had to apply for the job and compete with others. To become an administrator, he had to go to school and get a special credential.

Through Good Times and Bad Times

Sometimes during those years, times were easy. The budget was strong and we could try out new programs and classes. Sometimes during those years, times were hard. The budget was small, the future was uncertain, we had to cut programs and classes. Now, as he retires, times are difficult in a new way, with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Student Centered

Tim and students on Halloween

Through good times and hard times, Tim always put students first, understanding that the purpose of our school and Adult Education is to serve and support students. He supported the many SMAS programs that were student led and driven - Student Council, Student Ambassadors, Census Volunteers, Garden Club, Green Team, and advocacy for Adult Education.

CCAE Bay Section Conference

He joined in the fun for International Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Earth Day, and all the many other celebrations at our school.

Supported Teachers

Tim supported teachers in trying new things - new classes, new ways of teaching, new programs like the ESL City Government Academy, Green Team, Community Health, ESL with Music, ESL Video Class, and Parent Education programs. He encouraged teachers to learn new skills and grow as people and educators.

Active in Organizations

He was active in the teachers union, CFT Local 4681, serving as treasurer when he was a teacher. He was active in CCAE, the California Council for Adult Education, serving as an officer for the Bay Section, and leading the state conference held in Burlingame in 2016.

Tim enjoying International Day.

Time to Step into Something New

After so many busy, active years, now it is time for Tim to step away from San Mateo Adult School and step into something new. Tim loves books and baseball. He likes to cook, try new foods, and visit new places. We hope his retirement is filled with rest, renewal and new adventures.