Teacher (With Brain Tumor) Wants One More Essay From Hundreds Of Students

[matcom]

<snip>

It was a dream only an English teacher would have: a retirement party jammed with hundreds of former students, all bearing essays.

That's what Carrie Kolder wanted as a brain tumor brought her 31-year career at Fremd High School in Palatine to a premature end. And on Saturday, after nearly a year of planning, that's what she will get.

As many as 500 of her "kids"--some of whom are now approaching their 50s--are expected to meet in the school cafeteria for a farewell salute to the tough but tender Mrs. K, who demanded the best from D students and college bound alike.

She set the price of admission as one last bit of homework, a paper in which the students recall how their time in Kolder's classroom shaped their lives. The assignment has prompted many to reflect on the huge impact one teacher can have.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-0406250181jun25,1,802262.story?coll=chi-newslocal-hed

[WillParkinson]

1. Sweet....

I like that story. Thanks for sharing.

[zbdent]

2. I don't care who this is, I think it's a little over the top in

self-serving attitude.

"Hi, tell me how much you like me!"

Even if the person has the tumor, it is a bit much, in my opinion. Kinda like "Throw me a surprise party and say nice things about me." or "I'm holding a press conference, but you can't actually ask me any hard questions."

[King Of Paperboys]

3. Agreed

Look, I'm sorry for the lady and all, but this is a bit much.

[Pithlet]

5. I think retirement parties

are actually quite common, especially if someone has been at the job for over 30 years.

[noiretextatique]

6. how heartless

she has a brain tumor, for pete's sake. thankfully, i doubt her students will consider her wish "self-serving"...and so what if it is?

[Pithlet]

4. Thans for posting.

There won't be a dry eye at that farewell salute.

[noiretextatique]

7. i agree...i'm sure it will be a beautiful and memorable

tribute to her accomplishments as a teacher and mentor.