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Thoughts from the hearts and minds of teachers

Spring 2025 Newsletter

4/8/2025

73 Comments

 
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73 Comments
Audrey Howard
4/10/2025 10:56:42 am

As I read through this newsletter, I recognized many names and faces. It is nice to see so many of my professors and classmates presenting their work! I admire their passions, and this makes me all the more proud to be surrounded by them daily. Overall, this is a wonderful newsletter, and I enjoyed reading it!

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Arley-Beth Cravey
4/10/2025 11:10:58 am

We are proud to publish so many excellent Arkansas writers and help people around the world recognize local talent. Thank You for your interest in The English Pub!

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Nick Newlin link
4/10/2025 02:11:48 pm

Great work! Congratulations on putting together such a wonderful newsletter and thanks for featuring and supporting The 30-Minute Shakepseare book series!

Greg Slayton
4/10/2025 01:17:58 pm

I am honored to have an article about CRC's Burns' Night published.
Thank you, Arley-Beth and Dr. Walter.

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Arley-Beth Cravey
4/10/2025 01:29:41 pm

Celebrating Burns Night connected us w/ people around the world! Thank you for organizing such a wonderful event and contributing to The English Pub!

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Dr Walter
4/10/2025 03:37:28 pm

Nick Newlin, We are big fans of Shakespeare and of you! You are always generous to help us share Shakespeare with our students and with the world. Thanks for your support of The English Pub!

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Carson Webb
4/11/2025 08:33:52 pm

Miss Erica Johnson's article "A Few Thoughts About Growth" certainly is an interesting concept to think about. The idea of change and growth being intertwined is something I have had to grapple with before, looking back on my old self and seeing my naivete. The fact that she comprehended these things her perceived shortcomings, decided to change them despite those changes possibly being uncomfortable, and reaching out for help to do so motivates me to do the same. Thank you for the story and encouragement, Miss Johnson. I wish you all the luck in the world on applying your new teaching strategies!

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Erica Johnson link
4/15/2025 07:52:05 am

Thank you Carson Webb for your kind words and encouragement. As someone who has long been fearful of change, learning that it was tied to growth and that I had a support network of teachers, writers, and other professionals who were only wanting to encourage me has helped me keep on. I hope you are able to find a similar community for yourself!

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Mahogany Pierce
4/13/2025 07:49:33 pm

Dr. Walter’s note in the Spring 2025 issue of The English Pub really stood out to me. Her thoughts on change and how literature helps us through transitions made me reflect on my own growth. I’ve learned that reading and writing are more than academic skills; they help us process life, especially during challenging times. What also caught my attention were the stories of teachers who connect their personal experiences to their teaching. It showed me how important it is to think deeply and use writing to not only express ideas but also inspire others. This issue reminded me that critical thinking means looking beyond the surface and finding real meaning in what we read and write. Thank you to everyone who shared in this issue; your words truly made an impact.

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Arley-Beth Cravey
4/14/2025 02:53:15 pm

Thank You! We believe in the importance of writing and the many ways it can help you grow; we try and share that through our newsletter!

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Kylie Roper
4/14/2025 08:58:40 am

Erica Johnson's article “A Few Thoughts about Growth” is an intriguing read to say the least. The way that she compares to growth and change is remarkable. She has opened up to us about how she has struggled with the difference between growing and changing. Miss Johnsons bravery is overwhelming, the way she seeks out help to broaden her writing skills and the way she teaches is amazing. Looking back on my younger school self, I wish I was brave enough to seek out guidance and help me grow. It was a good read to help me open up my mind. Wishing you all the best fortune in applying the skills you learned into your teaching strategies!

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Erica Johnson link
4/15/2025 07:54:19 am

Thank you Kylie Roper for your kind words on my writing. It is surprising to me that people see my actions as brave! I wish you the best in your own path towards growth...it really is a journey that can be arduous but must begin with a single step.

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Addien Milholland
4/14/2025 09:29:13 am

I was greatly surprised to see so many familiar names in the newsletter. It's encouraging to see so many of my peers presenting their work. On that note, I greatly enjoyed reading about their experiences at conferences and other events.

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Hunter Cunningham
4/14/2025 02:51:42 pm

It was such a fun time. There were so many different presentations going on, and lots of opportunity to learn. I think the moment that highlights the meaning of the experience is when you get feedback on your research from others. So many participants had really good questions/feedback and made my first experience really well.

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Carlee Bayless
4/14/2025 09:57:44 am

I really enjoyed reading Grover Welch’s article, “Dialectical Approaches in the High School English Classroom.” I liked how he explained the way students can use conversations and writing to look at different sides of a topic. It made me realize how important it is to not just give your opinion, but to really think about other points of view too. His ideas show that discussing literature doesn’t have to be about getting the “right” answer. It can be about understanding different perspectives.

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Grover Welch
4/14/2025 04:05:39 pm

Thanks Carlee,
I think ultimately, teaching is about broadening our perspectives and thinking for ourselves. That is what makes great literature so good. Classics of course offer so many approaches, even when we approach them to discuss why they are canonized as "classics". Students don't grow by memorizing "who did what?" Instead when they can dig deeper into motivations, authorial intent, and broader lenses they find learning in surprising ways. Thanks for the supportive comment and I hope you think about contributing to this newsletter when you find you own muse.

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Jonah Richard
4/14/2025 01:40:20 pm

Dr. Walter's editorial note on the Spring 2025 Newsletter made me reflect a lot on this school year and the challenges that it has presented. It also made me reflect on my own personal growth through this school year and how education has helped me to build discipline and a strong mind through accountability.

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Dr Walter
4/14/2025 02:54:56 pm

Jonah,
I'm glad you are thinking about growth and accountability in your education. Did you read the book review? It's about Henry and Emily Swan. You know how they are now.

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Katty Rand
4/14/2025 09:31:03 pm

I recently read the Spring 2025 issue of The English Pub and was deeply moved by its thoughtful reflections, especially Dr. Kay J. Walter’s honest exploration of loss and mentorship, which highlighted how literature and teaching intertwine with life. Erica Johnson’s essay, “A Few Thoughts About Growth,” also stood out for its courageous embrace of change and its reminder that critical thinking means challenging ourselves as much as our texts. Throughout the issue, I was struck by the emphasis on community and how sharing personal stories can build connection and resilience among educators. These pieces reminded me that reading and writing are not just academic skills, but essential tools for reflection, healing, and transformation. Ultimately, The English Pub reaffirmed the importance of approaching education with depth, honesty, and a willingness to grow—both individually and together.

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Dianna Baxter
10/21/2025 10:13:49 pm

Katty Rand, it was so nice to hear someone else pick up on same point of interest. While reading the essay, by Erica Johnson, “A Few Thoughts on Growth”, I realized growth could also mean me letting go of the old writing habits, which were just that, habits, and becoming the learner again instead of the teacher. Thank you for your comment.

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Kylie Conville
4/14/2025 11:03:10 pm

Dr. Walter's note in the newsletter grasped my attention the most. It opened my eyes to how much my mother has done for me and helped me grow into who I am today. She is always the biggest fan of anything I do. Dr. Walter's note also opened my eyes to the fact that someday, we students will be responsible for the world our mothers and teachers live in. That statement makes literature and critical thinking more important to me.

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Dr Walter
4/16/2025 05:10:18 pm

Kylie, your mother has done a wonderful job of raising a strong scholar and an independent critical thinker. Keep up the good work and thank you for your support of The English Pub.

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Zaratta Ingram
4/16/2025 03:14:57 am

I truly enjoyed reading this edition of the news letter it was filled with great selections. I especially liked the section on little the readers and writers because we are the now and children are the future we started out as little readers and our hope is that one day they grow to become wonderful writers, editors, publishers etc. Dr. Walter’s Editorial Note was spot on she spoke of great loss, growth and awakening. Things that I also can attest to. With spring there comes a reset flowers began to grow, I plan to use this season to grow just as the flowers do.

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Dr Walter
4/16/2025 06:33:11 am

Thank you for sharing your little reader with us. You are setting a wonderful example for him by valuing your educational opportunities. He is learning to work hard at school and that learning is important and fun. ACTELA celebrates your devotion to his education and to your own lifelong learning. Keep up the good work!

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Makenzie sivils
4/16/2025 02:05:37 pm

During Kaina Willis’s piece we got to see through her eyes the trip to Crowley’s ridge for burns night. Show cases how she felt while celebrating Robert Burns life and legacy. By reading a poem call “Oh my Luve is like red red rose.”

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Kaina Willis
4/25/2025 11:07:09 am

Thanks for your comment! Burns Night was such a memorable experience, and reading ‘Oh My Luve is Like a Red, Red Rose’ surrounded by others there to honor Burns was truly a remarkable experience. I loved celebrating Robert Burns and his legacy!

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Zaikadrian Porter
4/17/2025 05:44:20 pm

I love the one when she talked about her mother, I know it hard losing someone you love the most in your entire life but I know that she's always with you in spirt

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Dr Walter
4/21/2025 08:58:22 pm

Zaikadrian, My Mama was a very special woman. She prayed for me and for my students every day. Now we honor her memory through the excellence of our efforts. Thank you for supporting the excellence you see in The English Pub.

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Tejon Tensley
4/21/2025 07:40:43 am

While reading through this newsletter, I noticed a lot of familiar names and faces.It is amazing to see my peers be able to present their work and have it published in a newsletter. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this newsletter.

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Dawn Bessee
9/22/2025 09:37:34 am

Tejon, thank you for your encouraging words. I believe, now more than ever, students needs an outlet for their academic expression. It is exciting to see so many take advantage of this opportunity and contribute to the newsletter.

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Averi Gasaway
5/5/2025 08:31:21 am

Reading this article shows me the compassion you have for your students and life. when Dr. Walter mentions "spring is the final stretch of an academic year already grown long and weary." I felt that, as a student we are working the hardest in spring to get our grades where they need to be. Dr. Walter shows the compassion that she has for her family and says she wants to "practice their lessons to make their wisdom live on" that shows the type of person that she is, having her as my professor has taught me a lot!

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Dr Walter
9/18/2025 09:28:40 am

Averi, thank you for your encouragement. Having students who value their learning makes my career as a teacher into a calling. If you get anything of value from being in my class, pay it forward.

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Presley Story
8/27/2025 10:50:06 pm

While reading the article " A Few Thoughts About Growth", I realized how much effort teachers put into their careers and how it leads to their personal growth. They focus on how they can improve their own skills so that they can better teach the future generations. This article shows the time and dedication teachers give to improve our learning experience.

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Erica Johnson
9/22/2025 02:45:42 pm

I'm glad you were able to make that connection and I hope you find time to reach out to a teacher who has put in the effort in your life! Thank you for sharing.

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Mya Casler
8/28/2025 08:48:20 am

I loved reading the part about dialectical techniques in the classroom. I wish that I was able to learn by those methods when I was in high-school; I believe they would have helped me get a better understanding of the material I was learning while making me more self-aware.

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Grover Welch
8/28/2025 09:13:20 am

Thank you Mya. I find the value of differing our teaching techniques is being able to differentiate learning for all.
-Grover

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Mya Casler
8/28/2025 09:17:07 am

In response to the November 2024 article “troops to teachers” I deeply agree with the fact that military veterans are good teachers. From a personal perspective, the best teacher I had in high-school was my Jrotc instructor; Chad Greenwood. I could always go to him for help with any class, he would genuinely be willing to work with me. He was one of the most understanding teachers in that school, and he cared about all of us.

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Grover Welch
9/18/2025 12:27:35 pm

I am glad to hear you had a Mr. Greenwood. For me it was a Mr. Gregg in band class. I hope that my students one day look back on me and see me as a help to them. Every one of us have a duty to pass on empathy, kindness, and love to those younger than us. Thankfully teachers throughout the state bring this to their rooms every day. Thanks for reading.
-Grover Welch

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Elijah Olaybal
8/28/2025 10:25:10 am

In the November 2024 article "Contemporary Relevance of the Attack on Pearl Harbour: In The Classroom", I never really had a solid grasp on how PTSD can be brought down through generations and its effects until I read this story.
In this Spring 2025 article "Dialectical Approaches in the Highschool English Classroom", I learned that English teachers aren't only teaching grammar and reading but is advocating for their students to gain the true essence of writing and deeper thinking.

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Grover Welch
9/18/2025 12:24:46 pm

You are correct about what we want from students. We want thinkers and writing is the purist output of what we think. Often when we speak, we are quick and loose, hence all the trouble our mouths can get us into. Clear, concise, and cogent writing changes things and accurately expresses our thoughts and feelings. Thanks for your Support.

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Abigail Ross
9/25/2025 11:30:40 am

I am glad you read my story, and am thankful that more people are considering the generational effects of PTSD. Thank you so much.

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makaya lancaster
8/28/2025 07:07:33 pm

From the spring 2025 newsletter, this article about Shakespeare discusses how to help students enjoy the story. The goal is to learn about Shakespeare fun for everyone!

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Dianna Baxter link
9/18/2025 12:06:29 pm

Makayla, teaching third and fourth graders Shakespeare was so much fun and inspiring! The parents loved our show! My favorite teaching moment in the classroom was months after our show, I overheard my students quoting Shakespeare to one another! Thank you for your comment!

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Joslyn
8/28/2025 07:56:19 pm

I really enjoyed reading the articles of so many people!, they are really inspiring

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Alex Lunsford
8/28/2025 10:36:25 pm

"A Few Thoughts About Growth" was a very insightful article that helped provide even more information and perspective on how much effort teachers put into their jobs. Teacher's put a lot of their focus on improving their skills to better teach their students. This article does an amazing job at providing insight on a teacher's dedication to their craft.

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Dianna Baxter
10/23/2025 11:30:22 am

I am so glad to hear this! Teaching is such a personal journey. I give tribute to Dr. Kay for being so transparent with her own life and allowing her students to be more open about their own experiences. Teaching is supposed to be personal! Thank you for your support and comment.

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Brody Benton
8/28/2025 11:07:19 pm

I loved reading the article “A Few Thoughts about Growth” because it addresses that sometimes in order to get better at things we love, we sometimes have to change ways we do things despite if we want to or not.

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Dianna Baxter
10/23/2025 11:37:03 am

Yes! Yes! Yes! This is so true! Learning and knowledge is an ever growing part of life. There’s always something new to discover. To grow we must be willing to be flexible with our thoughts and actions. Thank you for your comment!

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Cody
8/29/2025 12:10:38 am

I read the short piece in the November newsletter that Dr. Walter had written. I like how her father celebrated over food. "It was a time
to come together and share a table, for eating but also for talking and taking joy in the company of those who love us." My family is very similar and this just seemed like something that I can really relate too

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Dr Walter
9/18/2025 09:34:38 am

Cody, if your family is as strongly supportive of your education and accomplishments as mine was, you have a vast benefit in life over most people.

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Jonathan Garrett
8/29/2025 02:45:06 am

The article on page 24, "A Few Thoughts about Growth"
by Erica Johnson really was touching. I think we all want to better ourselves and our craft, but often are scared of the change that comes with it. It's refreshing to read a story about someone accepting that change and, in return, reaping the benefits. What an excellent read

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Dianna Baxter
10/24/2025 09:51:01 pm

Change can be one of the most fearful states, for sure! You’ve already done the first step, and that’s realizing you are scared of change. I am so thankful for Erica Johnson’s essay, ‘A Few Thoughts about Growth’, for putting the ‘normal’ back into learning. You’re not alone. Change is difficult, but the more changes you go through the more growth you’re doing. Thank you for your comment!

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Aaliyah Bearden
8/29/2025 07:50:48 am

I chose the article, “A Few Thoughts about Growth” by Erica Johnson. After reading what her growth was, I’ve decided to discuss what growth is to me. Growth is something that you can’t prepare for. It is also something that people are in denial about. Johnson touched on how she wanted to change her habits to become a better writer for her students, but she wasn’t ready to do so. This part stuck out to me because just like Ms. Johnson, I personally used to be in denial that I needed to grow in order to be successful. I knew the changes, the sacrifice, and the effort needed to be successful wasn’t in my mindset. In the end, I told myself i could do better, so i did.

This was an AMAZING read!

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Hunter Cunningham
11/2/2025 12:51:13 pm

Aaliyah, this is such a great way to look at things. I enjoy how the article makes you reflect on your own personal life. I enjoyed the read, too!

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Marquise McKnight
8/29/2025 08:32:40 am

Dr. Walter I would like to send my deepest condolences to you, your family, and all others affected by the loss of your mother and your friend. This is a beautiful article; I admire your commitment to the success of your students and your community. I also admire the fact that you judge your own success based on the success of your students and those affected by your teachings.

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Dr Walter
9/18/2025 09:40:26 am

Thank you, Marquise. My Mama was a powerhouse of encouragement and support for my teaching. She prayer for my students every day, and believed, with me, that they are the best and bravest proof of my abilities. I always declare that my students are the best people on earth. I count on you to make who I am, what I do, and all I believe shape the future for everyone.

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kyonias
8/29/2025 08:44:00 am

Dr. Walter I really enjoyed reading your editorial.The part about growth and validation really stood out to me.Im sorry for the loss of your mom and I thought it was really meaningful how you tied it in.

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Dr Walter
9/18/2025 09:43:21 am

Thank you for your condolences. When I write my editorial notes, I share myself with readers, just as I share myself with students in the classroom. It's the job of my audience to receive the message and act upon it. How much what I say can matter is up to you.

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Leonardo Ramos
8/29/2025 08:55:51 am

I found the article (Growth Through Adjuncting) inspiring, showing how adjunct professors thrive despite the challenges. Braden Taylor's speech caught my attention as he transforms the limitations of online teaching into new opportunities to rethink his practice and grow his teaching style, while Joan Linnstaedter demonstrates incredible resilience in juggling so many classes and still pursuing innovation through the use of AI. Terry Held offered a valuable reflection on learning from one's own students. Overall, the text conveys that, even with the challenges of adjunct life, there is profound growth that impacts both professors and students.

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Terry Held
9/18/2025 02:56:27 pm

Leonardo, Thank you for taking the time to send us your response about the article, “Growth Through Adjuncting”. Experience is a wonderful teacher, leaving enduring truths one never forgets. While many decry the lack of immediate material rewards, adjuncting opens up a whole new world of discovery. That discovery can be defined as joy. Thank you for your support of the English Pub.

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Lily Parke
8/29/2025 08:58:10 am

I really enjoyed this newsletter. I liked the perspective on growth written by Erica Johnson.

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Hunter Cunningham
11/2/2025 12:55:33 pm

That was a really thoughtful reflection! I connected my own experiences with Ms. Johnson’s realization about growth.

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Dana
8/29/2025 09:04:50 am

Dr. Walter's touching words in this article is really inspiring, giving great advice for teachers and life with helpful thoughts on finding purpose and growth!

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Dr Walter
9/18/2025 09:46:18 am

Dana, finding a purpose in life is a long-term goal that often comes with education. All jobs are hard work, but a calling is a joy.

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Caden Carpenter
8/29/2025 09:33:52 am

Reading through the article about the military teacher shows that maybe other retired soldiers and operators need to look into getting a teaching degree how effective and disciplined his class was.

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Grover Welch
9/18/2025 12:22:00 pm

Thank you Caden,
I believe in discipline of the mind, body, and spirit. I think many who come from the military are prepared to share that with students no matter the material. I too, hope more like-minded people come into teaching as we need all the help we can get.

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Rosalyn Halterman
8/29/2025 09:50:59 am

Erica Johnson's article was enlightening. I also struggle with despising change, but I have learned that it is necessary. Johnson's article showed me that a refusal to change can harm not only your own progress, but the progress of those around you, too.

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Hunter Cunningham
11/2/2025 01:10:30 pm

I really like how you connected the article to your own experience with change. It’s true that resisting change can slow down not only our growth but also affect those who depend on us. Your insight about learning that change is necessary shows maturity and self-awareness. I agree that embracing change can open up opportunities we might otherwise miss.

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Forsythia Williams
8/29/2025 09:54:03 am

Grover Welch's article in the November 2024 newsletter really spoke to me. I had a teacher in high school- math, not English- who was ex-military, and she has honestly been one of the best teachers I have ever had. She knew what she was talking about and taught me math very well, but, on top of that, she provided a sense of discipline and structure in her class that really helped me, because I tend to be a bit of a slacker. Such structure helped me manage my time and work harder in class, and the part of the article where Welch mentioned how veterans in teaching positions can help at-risk students who need more consistency and structure for support, that really spoke to me, because that actually reflects my own personal experiences. I also read, in the Spring 2025 newsletter, Dr. Strong's article on civic education (and the lack thereof in America,) which spoke to me because- well, it is to be expected of a political science major, but I am deeply interested in and care for politics. It is concerning, to me, that so many people participate in a system that they don't fully understand, because they don't get a proper civic education, which could lead to unintended consequences for both sides, since, if you don't understand what you're doing, you'll eventually inevitably end up with results that unpleasantly surprise you.

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Grover Welch
9/18/2025 12:19:54 pm

Thank you Forsythia,
First, such a lovely name.
Second, I appreciated hearing your personal experience connected with my writing. I expect that to some the concept of structure and discipline sounds overbearing. But I have found that structure and discipline is actually one of the kindest things you can do for students. Setting clear expectations with structures allow students to not be unsure of what to expect. This creates comfort and reassurance and then students have less anxiety. Knowing what to expect because you know your teacher has structures, they require makes a classroom safe. Thanks for your kind words.
-GWelch

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Jackson Boren
8/29/2025 09:55:32 am

Reading Dr. Walter's words about her father were really touching and inspiring.

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Dr Walter
9/18/2025 09:52:59 am

Jackson, my Daddy was a remarkable man. He taught me many enduring lessons about love and integrity and fortitude. He was my biggest fan and my strongest advocate. I hope you have people in your life who offer you such gifts, and I hope you become the kind of person who generously gives such gifts to the young ones in your life who need someone like my Daddy to stand behind them.

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Tregan Williams
8/29/2025 10:20:34 am

Reading this spring article really touched me and made me realize how soon it is coming for my generation to step up and take care of the ones who took care of us hoping that it takes a little longer but ik i will be ready for it.

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