The Other Day… I visited my former high school, and who was the first person I ran into in the parking lot? A marvelous lady and educator by the name of Carolyn Light. Besides being a good friend of mine while I was at the high school, she was my daughter’s favorite teacher. So much so that she spoke at my daughter’s funeral. She’s a hugger, and so am I, so we did that several times during our visit. Also, as of this year, we both have something else in common, we are now both retired.
Now I don’t mean to gush, but this is a woman who literally brings out the very best in students through her gift of teaching Art. She not only convinces students of their many exceptional qualities, but she is able to have students visually bring something out of themselves, in the form of the most brilliant artwork, with just a smile or a little guidance. I know this from personal experience because she brought out the artistic abilities of our little girl. Our daughter loved Art, and it was mostly due to having Ms. Light as her teacher. Carolyn has nurtured countless students through her love of art during her teaching career, and she made it look effortless. I know her current and former students admire this woman, and they will undoubtedly miss her when she is no longer there. I wouldn’t be surprised if there weren’t an empty seat at her retirement party, because I imagine it will be standing room only! Yes, she is THAT special!
They say that teaching is an “Art Form,” and I truly believe this. I can’t think of a better example of this than my friend, Ms. Carolyn Light. Her performance as an Art educator was flawless, nothing short of miraculous. If you were to ask her why she is the way she is, and why she uses the methods she does to teach, her answer simply would be, “It’s all for the kids!” We need a million more educators just like her, and when I first found out this would be her last year, I was extremely disappointed. However, I do know that retirement won’t stop her from being what she is, “The Best in the Room!” Until next time, Carolyn, enjoy retirement. No one deserves it more than you!!
