Letter of Appreciation from SHS

Dear SHS Community:

Over the last four years, I have been extremely lucky because so many teachers and staff at Scituate High School have impacted my education. Before I graduate, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the people who have made me the student I am today. They have inspired me to go into the field of education. As a student with a visual impairment, I sometimes need materials in a different format, and certain teachers have gone above and beyond. I would like to thank them.

First, I would start by thanking my teacher of the visually impaired, Mrs. Shea. We have been working together for fifteen years, and all of my progress is dedicated to her. She has taught me a lot, and I really appreciate everything she did for me.

Next, I would like to thank Mrs. Downing. We worked together for the last four years. Helping me with everything from daily academic work to finding my prom date, she was always willing to assist. I can not express how much I appreciate her positive influence, and I plan to follow her example in my future career. She is truly the best.

I would also like to thank Mrs.Tucker, who has been my high school band director. I admire her commitment to the SHS music program. Although I will not be playing trumpet in college, I am going to remember Mrs.Tucker’s example of dedication wherever I go.

Next, I would like to thank Coach Poirier, who gave me the opportunity to assist the varsity basketball team as the team manager for the past four years. I admire him for how much he cares about his players — on and off the court. I have learned a lot about basketball from him, but more importantly, I have learned valuable life lessons from him.

Studying math can be challenging for me; however, Dr. Ekstrom taught me one of the best lessons: things might not come easily, and that’s okay. When I was a student in his pre-calculus class last year, Dr. Ekstrom stayed after school with me before every test so we could review the problems. Pre-calc is hard, but if you do the problems over and over again, you eventually get it.

Thanks to Mrs. Murray, I learned to love the Spanish language. Her passion for speaking Spanish inspires me to continue my foreign language studies in college. She also played a key role in my college decision process. While attending Stonehill College, Mrs. Murray had a friend who had a visual impairment. When I expressed interest in the school, Mrs. Murray reached out to help. She contacted her friend, who was able to answer all of my questions. After hearing her friend’s responses, I knew Stonehill College was the school for me. I really appreciate Mrs. Murray’s help, and I will always be grateful to her.

Principal Wargo leads by example, and he shows me what it means to be a leader. Giving up his parking spot for a student and being in school every day with a positive attitude, Mr. Wargo makes sure everyone in the building is taken care of as he deals with unexpected situations in a calm and composed manner.  Although I’m sure his days can be difficult, Mr. Wargo never complains, and he makes sure students always have a safe learning environment.

Finally, I would like to thank the SHS custodial staff. Kip, Mr. Pipes, John, Jamie, Brian, and Mr. Sullivan are the reason our school functions so well. They are always willing to help me if I need them. They are all great guys who I truly enjoyed seeing and talking to every day.

I’ve enjoyed my time at Scituate High School, and I will always be grateful for the people who have helped me along the way.

Good luck to everyone in the class of 2016.  I know you will all do great things!

Thank you for everything,

Brendan Barry