Schools

Teacher Appreciation: Reflections of a Richfield Grad

I reflect on some of my favorite memories going through the Richfield school system.

In honor of PTA's Teacher Appreication Week, it seemed only right for me to reflect on my own experiences as someone who directly benefitted from the fantastic teachers—past and present—in the Richfield Public Schools system.

The following are just some of my favorite experiences and memories:

Reading "Ten in the Bed" to My Kindergarten Teacher

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While I had made the jump from kindergarten to first-grade at , when I finally read my first book all the way through I wanted to share it with the person who taught me the alphabet song: Mrs. Altstadt. I skipped recess one day to show off my new reading skills to her. She sat close to me and patiently listened as I read each page at a snail's pace. She was so proud. I'll never forget the care and interest she showed.

My Band Teacher Accepting I Would Never Play at Orchestra Hall

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I can't read music. Never could. And, believe me, I tried. Somehow I made my way from fifth-grade concert band to 's Syphonic Winds Band. Mrs. Colleen Fisher, rest her soul, was so great in her passion for teaching and music she accepted that I would never be a concert clarinetest, but worked hard to make me the absolute best I could be. Knowing I couldn't read music very well, our lessons focused on notes and playing by ear. She also opened her office to any student who wanted a place of refuge. (I may or may not have had a couple "extra lessons" collide with gym class. Shhh.)

Mr. Murphy

Anyone who had Mr. Murphy as their second-grade teacher at Sheridan Hills would likely say he was one of the best teachers of all time. Enough said.

Memory Snippits:

  • Mr. Habeck teaching my fellow classmates and I "Roy G. Biv." That one still comes in handy.
  • Watching the O.J. Simpson verdict in Ms. Monroe's sixth-grade classroom.
  • Sneaking out for an off-campus lunch in ninth-grade. The teacher who caught me coming back through the doors, and let me pass without repremand, will remain nameless.
  • Mr. Wiebe removing his partial dentures for all to see. I hear that routine is still a tradition.
  • Having a crush on Mr. Kaus.
  • Supervising the printing of the "Spotlight" in the cavernous high school basement. I would not recommend going down there.

Thank you to all Richfield teachers who work hard every day to educate and, of course, create wonderful memories.


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