Teachers want to know how they come across to their students. What do they think, what are they learning? An easy way to find out is to ask them.
For years I included as the last question on the final exam: Tell me about your experience as part of this class, what did you learn this semester? I’d embed that question in a little paragraph about my own experience with the class and how much I enjoyed teaching them. I knew they could take this as a chance to say something overly nice and suck up for a higher grade. But over the semester we had developed a back and forth working relationship, discussion, comments on papers, setting goals and checking progress we could mutually agree on. They knew I cared about them as people, as individuals, cared about their lives and what they were learning, that I was honest with them. And they were honest back.
I was delighted when they felt comfortable enough to give me advice too. It was a relationship of mutual respect.
I’ve kept folders of their responses, hundreds and hundreds over the years. I’ve been rereading some lately, and they bring me to tears.
I’d like to share some of them with you. They show the hope and pride I feel for the young next generation. They range from the lowest to the highest, remedial to college prep. They represent the range of the society we live in, and are testaments to the lovely words we should live by. All men and women are equal in the ways that count, and we can all live together in a better world. I hope my students will vote their consciences in the coming elections and every election after that. I think we all should vote. We owe it to ourselves.
I also hope that the examples I present here of student responses will help encourage other teachers to have the enthusiasm and courage to respond to their own students in kind.
I’ve tried to keep intact the mistakes of spelling and grammar. I present them as they are. They are, after all, rough drafts, written under the pressure of a final exam, no time to re-read or proofread or edit or correct, students watching the clock, looking toward the door of release, listening for the bell of freedom that will ring them into the waiting world, relief that it’s finally over. A possibly unexpected advantage for the students is that the process forces them to put into words what they may be just discovering, that, yes, this is what I want to say, how I feel, no time to tinker with an honest rush, and in so many cases, I hope this is not the end of everything, we’ll keep in touch.
Here’s an example of a typical writing prompt:
Dear Students,
What a year it’s been! I hope it hasn’t been as difficult for you as it has been for me. We’ve been through a lot together. I want to thank you for understanding that when I nagged you about completing your work or revising and re-writing it, that it was for your own good, and that I want only the best for you. I hope that you’ll continue to read for the fun of it, that you’ll love life and the joy of friendship, that you’ll get out or travel, go places, see things. Register and vote as often as you can; your voice needs to be heard, and things in our world really need to get better. Wherever you are after graduation – a job, college, the military – I hope it will go well for you, that you’ll be successful, have a great life. It has been a privilege being your teacher, getting to know you. Take care, keep in touch, live long and prosper.
Love,
Mr. S.
ASSIGNMENT:
Get your folder from the box – you’ll take it home, it’s yours – review your work and the year, the things you’ve read, written, done, and write a Letter to the Teacher. Tell him what you learned, what your plans are for the future. THIS IS THE LAST PART OF YOUR FINAL, so make it good. Turn in the letter but take your folder home with you. Good luck.
Here are a few examples of responses, in no particular order, from different classes and grade levels:
Dear Mr. Sterling,
It’s all over now. I mean the high school. I’m sad but I’m happy, just like the song says. There are so many wonderful memories made in this place, so many meaningful moments, but it is time to move on. It is time for us seniors to get the taste of the real world, to be out there really by ourself and to continue to prepare ourself for the future in the institution of the higher and more serious education, not that [this school] is bad but you know what I mean.
To you Mr. Sterling I have to say “Thanks a million times.” I know I’ve bugged you so many times with all of my questions about college and all those scholarship and UC essays. I’m the only one in my family and the first one who has gone through the “applying for college” process and I sure did have a bunch of questions that were puzzling my mind. You are one of those teachers (so many people probably told you this already and I have to say it too) that really cares for his students. You are not reluctant to correct everything we turn in and help us make it better and work towards perfection. You have helped this senior class greatly and I thank you for that. [This school] is definitely lucky to have somebody like you around.
As far as my future plans are concerned, you know that I’ll be attending UCLA (go Bruins!!!) next fall and will major in Economics / International Business. I like this field because it’s very flexible, because it smells like money if you’re good at it, and because it’ll give me chance to travel, learn more languages and learn about other cultures. I hope I become successful because the image of the corporate world really attracts me. I hope I make enough money to live a comfortable life. I hope I have a great family full of love and togetherness one day. I am optimistic towards the future and I know that everything will work out well if I stay focused, take things seriously but still have fun, live life one day at a time but also think about the future.
I should stop now. I’ll see you in the future because I’ll be coming back to visit. UCLA is just around the corner. Again, thanks so much for everything.
Love,
Ajla____
Dear Mr. Gary Sterling –
I really appreciate the time and effort you have put into me individually. I will always look back on the times you & I have studied & discussed together. One of the best choices I made this year was that of not participating in the senior ditch day & coming to your class. On that day you showed me poetry that I normally would have been extremely bored, but you made it enjoyable & interesting.
I hope in the future that you feel free to call me. I don’t want you to think that I wouldn’t want to hear from an old teacher. You are on my list of the top 3 teachers I have ever had, and I still keep in touch with the other two.
I am already planning to visit the Mr. & Mrs. Sterling book store somewhere in the world. I’ll plan a trip to see the world and stop off at your pad for a couple of days.
I am really looking forward to Point Loma, and I know that the information you have imparted to me will forever be valuable.
I can’t say thank you enough.
Your Friend in Christ,
Luke___
Dear Mr. Sterling,
I first want to let you know that I had a lot of fun in your classroom. I loved your teaching style & enthusiasm in helping students – not only in their studies but in their personal lives & college going on’s as well.
I learned so much in your class, I can never name it all. However, I really enjoyed reading the books you assigned as well as the independent ones I read for your class. I learned a lot from them but I mostly learned a lot from you.
You taught me what an AP Student is all about – you passed on to me your knowledge of poetry, novels, authors, & overall literature. However, it wasn’t only English that I learned about – I learned a lot of history as well. Some of the historic times that you spoke of in class, which include WW1, Shakespeare’s time, were very helpful in learning where literature originates.
Mr. Sterling, I want to let you know that you’re one of the most inspirational teachers. You’ll very helpful as well. I appreciate all that you have helped me to learn, understand, & accomplish. I hope you remember me (the “weasel”) because I sure will remember you. I’ll treasure the memories forever. Thank you again. May God help you & may you continue to have a happy & healthy life.
Love always,
Gayane____
(This was a separate note, apart from the final assignment):
Dear Mr. Sterling,
I ____ will not smoke any more ciggaretts at school or at home.
Also I’m sorry for putting you on the line.
Thanks for the grade and it will never happen again.
That’s my word.
Sincerely,
Kenny_____
My dearest teacher,
First off I have to thank you for nagging me about completing my work or revising and re-writing it. It was something I really needed and was for my own good. This year has been very difficult for me, the worst in fact, but you’ve helped to smooth the way.
One of my regrets in high school will be spreading myself too thin (i.e. not taking your advice at the beginning of the year). I don’t regret all I’ve been able to do but rather all that I haven’t done. I regret the work I never turned in and even worse the work slapped together at the last minute. The first really brilliant piece of work I do will be dedicated to you (and you’ll surely receive a copy). Don’t hold your breath though, it may be a while.
I know I wouldn’t be where I am now if you hadn’t guided and pushed me. You’ve bailed me out several times. Thank you for the inspiration, thanks for the wisdom, thanks for the advices, the list goes on and on. You have character and that’s hard to find in teachers these days. Your not afraid to stand for what you believe in and we need more people like that. I hope one day I will have positively affected as many people as you have.
Sorry this is a really lame letter but I’m really out of it today. I’m so full of relief, I’ve finally made it!! The most important thing I have to say is thank you. I will always cherish you as one of those few teachers who has really made a difference in my life and influenced my work.
___
Dear Mr. Sterling,
Thanks so much for becoming an important part of my life. People often say that we’ll forget highschol and the people we knew but I completely disagree with that! I’ve known you for quite a while now ever since the A___ days, I’ve noticed you always have something nice to say. That’s rare in a person. And even if there’s something wrong, you look at it optimistically and try to solve it. I’ll never forget you and your unique personality and famous hair!
Next year I’ll be off to UCI to make a future for myself, hopefully successful! I’ll be with A___ and we can support each other through the rough times. Yes, you have supported all of us with an understanding many people do not share. With fond memories and lots of love from my heart.
Ranee___
Dear Mr. Sterling,
I’m glad that I have been given this opportunity to express my feelings on this class. I entered the class with mixed feelings about [this school], & my career as a student here. In 11th grade I was dreadfully unhappy because I felt that socially [this school] was not the place for me & that I was not being academically stimulated either. This class, as well of some others, has been one of the few experiences I’ve had at [this school] that I will remember. Finally, an English class that was a challenge! I was forced to think on my own, learn to accept the opinions of others & admit that I could be wrong. I learned how to criticize things effectively & not to be too trite. (Remember my horrible Gawain essay with references to the 3 little pigs, etc.?) I learned how to appreciate poetry not only for the pleasure I get from reading it but also its literary worth. How nice it is to finally have an English teacher who can read through B.S. & honestly relate to us our faults. For we cannot improve without falling a bit & learning how to overcome ones faults can’t be done w/out criticism. I realize that at times I’ve not been the best student, my work at times I’ve not been proud of, & my tendencies to socialize have been, at times, too frequent. I’m sorry.
I will miss this class next semester, but I hope that you will allow me to come talk to you & keep in contact.
Thank you for your time,
Megan____
Mr Sterling,
Thank you for really caring about me and the rest of the students. You are truly someone who inspires me to continue to work towards helping people. We may not agree about what people truly need but we both can see that living for yourself cannot really bring true happiness. People are the only real worthwhile thing to invest in and I pray that you might continue to touch other young people’s lives as you have mine. I want to continue reading many things and continue to contemplate what life is all about. I appreciate that you still do the same and your openness to different people’s views. I hope to really follow Tolstoy’s recommendation: “Everybody thinks of changing the world, and nobody thinks of changing himself.” I will come and see you next year for sure. I pray that you will find satisfaction and fulfillment and real happiness.
Thanks for being a friend and a teacher,
Love,
David____
Mr Sterling,
These past six weeks have gone by faster than I thought they would and you have taught me a lot, but most of all you have taught me about self-respect. I thought about what you told me Thursday night and I really did pull a dumb stunt.
I also think by trying to cheat you with the report I also hurt myself and your faith in me as a student. I have been a real pest in class and I thank you for trying to help me. With all respect I think you’re the greatest teacher and really the only one that ever tried to help me.
Brett_____
P.S. What I did was real stupid and I think it would hurt the author that wrote it and it will never happen again. It would be the same as someone taking one of the songs I wrote and publishing it under his name.
No madder what you think I did learn stuff during summer school and I thank you a lot. –Brett
Next year I will be attending Cal Poly Pomona. The most memorable thing that I learned this year was to watch what you write. That will stick in my mind forever
Joshua____
To the wonderous master of words and literature:
My, my, what can I say to express what an honor it was to be a student of the great laureate. You’ve enlightened, advised, taught, and expanded this young mind that’s so eager to learn and absorb. You’ve lived up to the grand reputation that you have – and even exceeded it a certain poignant instances.
I cannot pinpoint exactly how what you’ve taught has affected me, only in that I’m definitely a changed person. I’ve grown mentally aware of another side of literature – the side that’s hidden to ”the norm” and exposed to those who reach for truth and understanding. Continue to inspire Mr. Sterling because it’s what you do best.
I plan to pursue a career in learning about the world. The means by which I’ll undertake is to probably enter the field of communications. I hope it will take me to beautiful places where I can help people smile and imprint my memory upon their lives with a word or two of wisdom. I think journalism is an intriguing pathway for me and I’ll explore it for the time being at UCSD. Maybe in a few years you’ll hear of my name connected with the prestigious Pulitzer (yeah right! – but it doesn’t hurt to dream). Dreams are beautiful and my life is one big dream that for an instance was brightened by a certain individual who enlightened me to the magic of words.
With the sincerest thanks and appreciation, always, ____
Dear Mr Sterling,
Rosebud eater, conniver, power structure, scaffolding for students; genius, lunatic, seeker of information, bank of facts, poetic physicist, serious jokester, dramatist, long haired educator, true teacher, teller of “jokes,” Sayer of facts.
Well Mr Sterling, I am not especially good at this so maybe I should be more straightforward. You have surprised me quite a bit. Broken every hint of a sterotype, showed that a person must excel, or try to excel at whatever interests him/her. This will not be one of those sappy tear jerkers good-byes. What’s the point of saying good-bye (ugh what a terrible word) if I am not going away for good?
I know that I could have done better in your class. Maybe I’ll make up for (or pay) for it later. Keep up the good work (except be more intensive in AP English) and never stop being the balanced person you are. Remember, you are never so old that you can stop growing, stop learning. Blah, Blah, blah learning is lifelong etc. But really, I do believe this. The jokes are not very bad but I wouldn’t want to encourage you. Good luck next year and make the best of what comes your way (especially your way next year).
Do I even need to sign this? Well…Always analyze even when you think you might prove yourself (unclear word). Aristotle might tend to agree a bit.
Your eternal student, friend, etc.
Arkhan
Dear Dr. Sterling,
Ok, ok, maybe you don’t have the credentials to be called as Dr. but it just sounds right. It had been an amazing year and I hope it’ll continue in the future.
First off, I am dumbfounded by the amount of work I’ve accomplished, and done. More amazingly is the amount of comments and notes in my work. I did not have any teacher that wrote as many comments as you did.
I’ve learned many things this school year. To start, my vocabulary has been greatly increased and enhanced by all the words that were given to me. I wanted also to learn some analogies, and sentence structure but I guess there wasn’t enough time. I also learned by (the hard way) that in High School, late work doesn’t pay, and plagiarism doesn’t work.
My plans for the future? What future? I don’t have any future. Yeah right. I finally decided on my extremes and possibilities. # 1 on the list is business professional. # 2 is English teaching. Now that’s amazing because I hate English. However, if my writing is advanced, I am considering as an option. If all fails, I’ll pursue on a musical career which isn’t half bad. In any case, English, Math, and History is very important and I believe that this class allowed me to get one step closer to my goal.
Love,
John___
Also known as
“The Weasel”
Mr. Sterling,
What kind of hen lays the longest???
…a dead one.
I just wanted to get you in a good mood. This was the first time I ever used “Cliffs Notes.” I heard about them from people at Pacific Christian High School. They used them in English an got an “A”. So I figured I would use them. I only wanted to use them to catch up on my reading. Then I was going to use a few sentences in my test. But the Cliffs Notes sounded so good, that I used them for the whole test. I guess I was hoping you never heard of them – that was pretty stupid of me. I promise I will never use them on a test or assignment again.
Eddie___
I wish I had more teachers as honest and understanding as you. Thanks.
Mr. Sterling—
I have learned tremendous amounts in this class. First I’ll talk about the concrete fundamentals.
I have learned to make better essays. I have learned not to rush through essays, but to take my time so they’ll be enjoyable.
I have learned to get my assignments in on time. Have you noticed that in the last few weeks I have met every deadline.
I thank you for all of these things!
Most of all I have learned that I have a good friend. I think that together we can get positive things/changes around here. Neither of us are afraid to question authority, justice, or administration. We can do something together
Peace
Mike___
I could say that I have learned “such and such” about each book and poem we’ve read but I have gotten as much from every class I’ve had. What has made your class so special has been the development of thought you have stressed. I have really enjoyed the discussions we have had. I think this class should have been called “Debate/Discussion AP.” The discussions have been extremely valuable to me as I feel that I have learned to think quickly and speak more clearly and know exactly what I’m trying to say before saying it (I’m still working on that!) The discussions have been stimulating and enjoyable and I thank you for being so good at instigating them. I have also learned much from the in class writings you’ve given us. I am beginning to lose my fear of writing. Thank you, and I’m glad I’ll see you next semester. You should be a liberal arts college teacher. But then again high schoolers need good teachers too! I am also impressed with your ability to see so deeply into people so quickly and with such accuracy!
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