Leaving a Legacy
I usually to do not write about personal events but this one seemed relevant to share.
Yesterday I attended the memorial service, with my children, for John Stewart. He was my son’s homeroom and central subject teacher. My daughter was his student a few years back. A series of Facebook pages and a former student’s blog post may give you a glimpse in the impact this man had on his students.
There were so many who came to honor this educator that the attendees filled a theater, a very large tent and still people could not get in. Hundreds of current and past students, were among the ‘celebrators’ as this certainly was a celebration of a live well lived. He is remembered by people who were in his classroom close to 40 years ago. I am blessed that my children had a chance to have a memorable teacher. They are also fortunate to have attended a school with quite a few wonderful educators.
I can name two teachers who had a significant positive impact on my life and learning. I can name five who had a significant negative impact. The rest I am not sure I can even name or remember without the help of a year book. What does that say about them and about me?
Mr Stewart Big* as he was know to my children acted upon the belief that children are intelligent, curious, talented individuals who are cable of much if they are just given an opportunity. He was creative, a story teller, and good listener. My children came home almost everyday eager to tell me about Mr Stewart and his adventures. He took them on many discoveries as they reenacted Lord of the Flies, civil war battles, and the constitutional convention. Lessons my children will never forget, quite frankly neither will I.
Mr Stewart was good to people and he left quite a legacy. There were so many students who came to honor a man who spoke a kind word, believed in them and, gave of himself. I only wish I can come close to leaving that kind of mark behind. Many of the students thought the same thing. Even in his passing he taught that lesson. Be good to each other, have faith and you can change the world.
*His son Josh Stewart, Mr Stewart Little, is also a teacher at the same school.
2 thoughts on “Leaving a Legacy”
It is interesting that we remember some of our teachers in the past. Some had taught us so well, and it had a positive influence in our lives. Although we had our share of negative experiences, we learned from it and moved on. It is nice that your friends and colleagues remember you for your good actions. I sometimes hope that people will take time to thank teachers while they are living. Thank you for your posting. It has a given me a chance to reflect and thank people who have made special contributions in my life.
It seems I can remember the teachers who negatively impacted me easier than I can remember the ones who had a positive impact. I try to see something good in everything. Unfortunately, I recently had a very negative experience with an instructor. Let’s just say he made me jump through hoops for my grade! One thing I did learn is how not to do this same thing to my students. I will respect them more by providing substantive and accurate feedback as not to mislead them. I will not provide misguided information and then not take the time to answer questions. I will not misuse my authority as an instructor. I hope that by doing these things I will have a positive impact on my students that they can go back and think on one day!