A TRIBUTE TO TEACHERS

"Lost" Kid Speaks by Glenn Huff     

I was a young kid who was lost in his depression. I was convinced that I was stupid because of being in learning support classes and having modified testing in my other classes. I was always bullied in school and hated school because of it. I truly didn't think I was going to grow up to amount to anything. I thought about suicide but I knew that that wasn't the answer I was looking for. I always loved history but just couldn't get interested since I had Mr. Garret in 8th Grade. But I had no idea that in the year of 2000, during my junior year at Blackhawk High School, someone would completely change my life.

I had selected American History as one of my classes that year. It still feels like yesterday that I was sitting in front of Mariah Brown's desk in Mrs. Daquila's class. I had been taking modified testing in science class and all it did was make me feel stupid, as if there was something wrong with me. And all of my classes were about to follow with the modified testing. But Mrs. Daquila saw something in me, and my parents were told that she thought I was worth giving a try at non-modified testing in her class. I still remember that vary test. I was so nervous but I was still confident in myself.

On that day, with that test, I proved to everyone, including myself, that I was not stupid. When it was graded and I got it back, I was so happy! I got an 82%! I got a B! I had that test hang up on my wall until even after I graduated. I truly believe that that moment set the tone for my life. I proved to myself that with determination and patience comes welcomed results and total happiness. I went from feeling like an outsider in school to feeling completely accepted. I went from a kid that didn't take part in class to the person that all the guys picked when we played "Who wants to be a millionaire Guys vs Girls". I made it all the way to the last 2 questions left.

In short if it wasn't for Mrs. Daquila I'm not sure where I'd be. Her one simple decision inspired a lifetime of determination, hope, and skill in myself. And to all the teachers, current and retired, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for all the students that you have inspired. And for the ones still to come. You might have changed their lives the same way Mrs. Daquila changed mine.

P.S.: I did not simply write this in hopes that Mrs. Daquila would get it some day. I also want all teachers to know how valued they are and also know that a simple action from you can change someone's life for the better.