(May 16, 2008) — Photography, fishing, golf and guitar are the four activities Clark’s photography teacher Bill Saul is excited about since he is planning to retire at the end of this school year. “I can afford it!” Saul said regarding the reason behind his retirement. “Plus my vision is not getting better as the years go by and I’d like to save some of it for my personal activities.” Saul, who has been a teacher for almost a decade, did not start off as a teacher. In fact, teaching was his third occupation. Saul’s first occupation was with the Associated Press where he spent a decade working numerous desk jobs. He then held a job at the ABC network working as a publicist and producing photo sessions. “I was hiring top photographers like Annie Leibovitz and Timothy White,” Saul said. “I got to work with them and see exactly how they did their highlighted work.” After spending 18 years with ABC, Saul took a year off. During that time, someone said to him, “You know with your portfolio, you can probably teach.” However, the process of becoming a teacher isn’t that simple. “You have to pass certain tests, all kinds of ‘red tape’ to become a teacher,” Saul said. After receiving his designated subject credential for photography and his clear credential, Saul entered the world of teaching. He began as a substitute teacher for various schools, and then taught a night course at CV on wet film photography. He then started teaching a course on digital photography at Clark, while continuing to teach his course at CV, until Principal Doug Dall signed him to a fulltime teaching contract. Saul has made many memories during his years at Clark. “Of course various students throughout the years will remain in my memory for a long time,” Saul said. Another fond memory Saul has of his teaching years is seeing the success his students have had in various photography competitions. “Those are always highlights of every year,” he said. Several of Saul’s students have been quite successful in the fi eld of photography. One student won a photography competition, and as a prize to Saul, he received 100 videos from the American Film Institute. A few of his students have gone on to the Art Center or top ranked schools in photography. One of Saul’s students was even selected for the International Art Show in San Diego. When asked what he will miss most about Clark, he had a tough time answering. “Well, I have to tell you, the level of technology here is very high,” Saul said. In addition to the high level of technology, Saul says he will miss various associations he has at the school. Although his replacement has not been determined, Saul said he is ready for his retirement. Though he likes to keep it on the hush for the time being, he plans to do more personal interest activities such as traveling, fi shing, golf, guitar and plans to continue his photography. He currently has two prints on display at the Brand Library Art Gallery. He is also looking forward to spending more time with his wife, who retired three years ago. “Definitely a reason I should retire, spend more time with her,” Saul said.