With two masters degrees and a prep school education, an introverted Southern Californian wanted to teach science with excitement and creativity in urban Lancaster, PA. He had to surmount student indifference, administrative criticism, organizational upheaval, and lack of resources to realize his vision of teaching as an art. By playing original science songs, using humor, and prioritizing active learning, he forged often strained but meaningful relationships with his students. After a brief foray into administration, he grew into a building leader who continually strove for improvement in frequently turbulent times. Follow his adventures as he grew from a naive beginner to a strategic veteran.