For her, her work was always more than a job - it was a mission. Children meant everything to her, and their stories, difficulties and successes touched her deeply. After decades of teaching, she retired, but her desire to help never waned.
To find a real break in retirement, she bought a caravan in Camp Jadranka, in the centre of Izola. The caravan was situated in the shade of pine trees, right next to the path leading to the beach. The campsite was full of life - families, children, elderly couples. Everyone was enjoying the joys of the sea in the summer months. Jožica quickly met many nice and friendly people with whom she loved to chat over a morning coffee or an evening stroll along the shore.
One day, coming from the beach, she noticed a 14-year-old boy staring thoughtfully at an open textbook near her caravan. His face expressed confusion and despair. Jožeci, who has always had a keen sense of children's problems, couldn't help but feel a sense of calm. She approached him and said kindly, "Do you need help?"
The boy, whose name was Luka, nodded awkwardly and with sadness in his eyes. He was preparing for a revision exam in geography and physics, but the material was not going to his head. Last year's class had been tough for him and now he had to pass the exams in July if he wanted to enjoy the rest of the summer without worry.
She smiled and sat down next to him. In a calm and encouraging voice, she explained some of the basics, guided him through the more difficult tasks and helped him understand what had previously seemed impossible. Every day they worked through some of the material together, sometimes on the beach, sometimes under the umbrella of the caravan. She was able to explain the material in a simple, interesting way, so that Luka began not only to understand but also to enjoy learning.
When the July revision deadline arrived, Luka was ready. After a few tense days, he returned to camp with a big smile. He had passed both exams! He ran up to Jožica and hugged her, "Thank you, Miss Jožica! I couldn't have done it without you!"
Jožeci felt warm at heart. Her vocation was behind her, but her mission remained alive. She looked proudly at Luka and winked at him, "I knew you could do it. You just needed a little help."
That summer at Camp Jadranka was very special for her. Not only did she find peace and relaxation, but she also realised that her passion for teaching would never fade. And that was the biggest reward for her.
Zala Krupljan, 16. 2. 2025
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