After-school jobs. What do Montana teachers do in the summer?

While Kris Magruder enjoys teaching special education classes at North Middle School nine months a year, he relishes the chance to work outdoors the other three months as a river guide.

"I’m the jack of all trades for (former teacher) Craig Madsen at Montana River Outfitters," Magruder said. "I do some guiding, some camp cooking and some boat sales and trip planning. I’m always doing some teaching, giving pointers to people rafting or kayaking for the first time.

"Outfitting is a change of pace from teaching and really recharges my batteries. It’s refreshing and more physical to work outside," he said. "And I need to work a summer job to help make a living for my family."

Madsen, a former high school science teacher who gradually was able to convert his passion for floating rivers into a full-time business, usually hires a half dozen teachers to serve as river guides, cooks and sales people.

By PETER JOHNSON • Tribune Staff Writer

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20090323/BUSINESS/903230308/1046/SPECIALSECTION05