John J. Lynch, a Southern California native, is the new Patagonia Union High School math teacher. After graduating from UC Santa Barbara, where he studied math and anthropology, he has taught math for the past 30 years.
Students at PUHS have welcomed his presence at the school. “Mr. Lynch is really outgoing,” Senior Lizzy Urias, who is in Mr. Lynch’s pre-calculus class, said. “I appreciate everything he has done for us in the short amount of time he’s been here.” Senior Olivia Blystone agreed, saying, “He adds a lot of personality to the school.”
Although from California, Lynch has roots in this area. His wife’s grandparents owned the Rocking Chair Ranch, outside Patagonia, and he has been coming here for the past 32 years. After the death of his wife’s aunt, Carol Connely, three years ago, the Lynchs took over her property.
Lynch, who had grown tired of living in Los Angeles and felt he needed a change, moved to the ranch in August. “I just think it is one of the most beautiful places in the United States,” he said. His wife has stayed in California to take care of her mother, while continuing to teach middle school math, but plans to move to Patagonia next year.
Outside of school, Lynch has a range of interests which include working on vehicles, fishing, water skiing, and bicycling. He considers himself a “Jack of all trades, master of none.”
He has no plans to retire from teaching any time soon. “I will continue to teach until I can’t anymore,” he said.