Mr. Zartman Continued

After I wrote about Mr. Zartman and my binders earlier this month I had the urge to find him. Easy enough with Google - especially, because there are few Wendall Zartmans in Houston, TX. He is now teaching across the street from my old high school, Lamar. He spent 21 years at my high school before he went to St. John's where he is in his 10th year.

I emailed him wondering if he would remember me. He responded back quickly saying "of course I remember you!". He went on to tell me that he had just attended a lecture on how the adolescent brain works. The lecturer talked about how teachers do not realize how powerful their words are and that the impressions they make have a huge impact. A couple of days after he attended this lecture, he received my email. I guess his lecturer was right. Mr. Zartman did make an impact on my life (the fact that I am writing about him for the third time proves this point).

Today I received another email from him. He used my essay in class to motivate his students. I am truly touched. Funny how life works given the time. I started in his class being a terrible student (not listening, not doing the work, talking to friends and having a messy binder - I am sure), but I turned that around with a challenge and reward from my mother (see Mr. Zartman and the Gucci Purse). Now Mr. Zartman has used me to motivate his students. My mother will be proud. I wonder if there is another purse in it for me? Only joking.

I want Kelan and Lauren to have amazing teachers in their lives. In fact, Dan and I are already working to make sure this happens. We are actively supporting school board candidates (i.e. money and volunteer time). Additionally, we belong to the organization - Communities and Parents for Public Schools - Dan serves on the board as well. This is an organization whose mission is to ensure quality public schools for all Seattle children. It is so important because teachers have such an impact on our children's lives. They are not just there to teach the material - they are mentors, coaches and friends.

Thank you Mr. Zartman.