When the hurlyburly's done, When the battle's lost and won

The following is to remind myself why I get out of bed in the morning.

Excerpted from emails from parents:

You really have nothing to thank me for, both me and Chris need to be thankful. You are going above and beyond what can be expected. I know Chris is not your only student in your class, I just hope he is aware of this. THANKS.

From the parent of a particularly vehement student: I wanted to let you know that while I was helping Justin clean his room this weekend, I came across a drawer full of his English assignments with your comments. I questioned Justin on why he was keeping them and his response amazed me. Apparently, he values your opinion on his writing.

Excerpted from the journal entries of graduating seniors:

I'm thankful for you taking the time to put up with our class. I know it was tough but you did it and you have my respect and admiration. You did a very nice job teaching us and your style of teaching really helped the information sink in and it kind of enthused us to do our work. Thank you for being the best English teacher I have had. I'm only speaking the truth (not trying to suck up). -Mike

You've been a really good teacher this year. It's been fun to be in your class. I've learned a lot about vocabulary especially from the drills everyday. They're a pain but they help. You shouldn't change anything when teaching your students next year. I thought you did everything really good and were really helpful. -James

I learned the most throughout high school in this English class and you are the one teacher I feel has pushed me to work hard. And I love that you never let the pressure off and now I know I can work under that pressure. Thank you. -Kara

Another memorable moment of mine would be meeting Mrs. Casey. She is the best English teacher ever. I wish I could have had her all 4 years. -EJ

Thank you for all your time and effort this year. I don't think I could do this without you. I now see I might graduate because you always turned me into the office when I copped class so I could come the next time. Thank you for e-mailing my parents and telling them I was failing so I could keep the pressure on and get that D and then the C. Your class was a blast. I love being so outspoken in there. Sorry If I bugged you at some time. -Paul