One of Seaman’s long standing and well respected teachers, recently endured a life-changing event. On Dec 16, Claudia Welch, a physical education teacher who has taught for over 40 years, fractured her left patella. The accident happened as Welch was leaving the high school building to return the bus to the bus barn.
On her way out the doors she slipped on a piece of ice and went down on her left knee.
Nearly a week later, she had extensive surgery to repair the soft tissue and had a partial patellectomy, which removes bony fragments from the knee cap.
The next step in her recovery process involves physical therapy three times a week, for the next four weeks.
Her return date back to school is uncertain, as it depends on the progress of her physical therapy and mobility. Then the doctor must release her to return to work. She also has to gain confidence in her knee and its ability to withstand the possible contact it could be exposed to in a gym setting.
Many students taking her classes are eager for her to be back.
Luke Konrade said, “I am excited for Mrs. Welch to teach again, I believe she is the heart and soul of the physical education program.”
He also explained how the moment is bittersweet, as Barbara Bowen, the substitute teacher who is filling in for Welch, will go back to being a normal substitute.
“As happy as I am to see Mrs. Welch come back, I will miss having Mrs. Bowen.”
Mrs. Welch has attained a greater respect for people with disabilities and sympathizes with the difficulties they face.
The process has also strengthened ideals she preaches to students.
“As I have said many times over the years to my students and colleagues, our health is the most important thing in life because we all want to live an active, healthy life.”