Do you remember reading The Odyssey freshman year with Ms. Carolyn Johnson?
I do.
When Ms. Johnson distributed copies of the book in class I opened mine up and was stunned. A massive book of one continuous poem. She asked us to read aloud and discuss the epic poem that day. It was freshman year and I’d never seen anything like it and I didn’t know what to do. Some students transferred out. I knew it was going to be a long year…
She didn’t dummy down her lesson plan for college prep (level 3), honors (level 4), or A.P. (Advanced Placement for college credit). Everyone was taught the same thing with the same expectations. In 1996 we had a great group of faculty members, but few CHS teachers held every student they taught to the highest standard like Ms. Johnson. As a result she wasn’t the most popular.
But over time I’ve learned that the most important heroes often go unsung.
Thank you for holding every student you taught to to the highest standard. Thank you for teaching us that course levels don’t define us and can’t limit our potential. Bye Ms. Johnson. I learned we lost you today.
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As we go into the 2011 School year let us all bring that spirit to our work. To honor not only our students but to honor our friend.
What a great way to honor Ms. Johnson. Thanks so much for writing that moving tribute
The highest tribute you can show to her you already have and continue to do. I thank Ms Johnson for making such an impression on you that you share yourself with us. Keep writing the words that open worlds.