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June 22, 2006 Dear Students, The decision to leave Joppa High School has been one of the most difficult of my life. In the last five years, I have come to love this little school and its wonderful students. It is here I came to truly understand why I love the art of teaching. At first, I came to teach, but by the end, I realized I had learned much about myself, teaching, and today’s youth; and I am better because of the experience. The lesson in my leaving is this: everything is cyclical; nothing ever remains the same. Life progresses like the sun moving across the sky from exuberant morning to peaceful twilight. All of you will move through the grade levels at Joppa, graduate, go to college, and then embrace your life. You will grow from awkward, gangling youth to vibrant young adult and on to be mature, responsible citizens. My part as your English teacher will eventually become a small segment of a life long trip, and I am proud to have been able to help you along this path. This cycle is the way we live our lives; and I must live mine. I have accepted an English/Speech position at a high school in St. Louis; the wheel must turn and we all must undertake another learning experience. I take with me wonderful memories that include our trips to New York City and Chicago. I am sorry about the timing of this decision and its effect on our thoughts about the trip to Europe. Perhaps Mrs. McGinnis, Mrs. Bruce, or Mrs. Cates can help you make this a reality. I will certainly offer my help. From the beginning, I have told you our relationship, forever more, will be that of student and teacher. Though we are about to be separated by distance and time, the internet affords us the opportunity to stay in touch. I invite each of you to send me your thoughts; pose questions about assignments; or simply keep me informed about your lives. The email link below is my new address. Best wishes and good luck to all of you. Thank you for the wonderful memories. Larry Marrs |