Can you think of a teacher that had a positive impact on you? Foremost in my mind is Mr. Holloway. He was a small man with big glasses, a moustache and rather bald. He was probably in his early sixties the years I was in his classes as he retired three years after I graduated.
No, it's not a misprint; I did mean years! To clarify he was my English teacher and Latin teacher for two years which leads me to another explanation. Luckily, I was not repeating-just taking two different levels.
By sharing this info, I am dating myself. There are not too many high schools teaching Latin these days. It is a wonderful way to learn about English vocabulary and some cool history. I know it helped my SAT scores, also.
English class was challenging. He made certain we could not cruise. There were plenty of times we all thought he expected too much. Plus-did we really need to learn or read half of what he taught? Symbolism, similes, gerunds, protagonists, alliteration, bibliographies, Dante, Shakespeare.....WHY? He knew why!
While many other students were struggling with college English, I found the classes easier than in high school! Not only did I benefit then, it has served me well to this day.
I never got back to school to express my appreciation. Today I am. Thanks, Mr Holloway for teaching me discipline, knowledge and how to think for myself!
Do you have a "Mr. Holloway" to thank? Imagine how good you'll both feel when you do!
