One of my favourite teachers from my school years was hands down David Sollows. He was enthusiastic, positive, upbeat, kind and very understanding. He had a special kind of sensitivity and love for people that I quickly adopted as a life motto. When I think back to elementary school, I know I had lots of really wonderful teachers, but he was the first male teacher I had, so maybe that is why he stood out as well. He was the principal and Grade six teacher in those years. The way he could so seamlessly lead the teaching staff and teach our class is still a feat I admire and sit in awe of.
David taught us the value of being an involved citizen, of being compassionate towards others, of treating everyone with care, kindness and respect, of looking at the bright side of any situation and keeping your head up and a smile on your face when confronted by challenges or adversity. I cannot tell you anything we learned in that classroom other than those things. He made an impression then and I still look forward to the times when I have a chance to speak to him about life, work and teaching. From our humble little school at Milton, he moved to the new elementary school, Meadowfields and as I found out a few days ago, he is retiring this year. Tomorrow is his last day with the students. Knowing him and his passion for what he does and the people he works with, I am sure it will be challenging to move on from that front line position he has held for... ahem, many years!
Whenever I walk down Main Street to the downtown I always think of our grade six class and how long ago that great time happened. One of our projects was to plant and dedicate a tree on Arbor Day. We all read things out loud to the small group that had gathered and I read a monologue that was as if I was the tree speaking. I only remember the first line or so, "Hi, My name is Emerald Green, but my friends call me Woody. I'm a tree." This tree is no longer a seedling, and when I look at it, towering above the power lines, I am reminded I am no longer a weak little sapling either.
David as you retire, I wish you much health, loads of happiness, many fresh flowers in the gardens and special moments with your family for years to come. Oh and I wish you many foggy evenings of singing shantys with your sailor buddies over a pint. Thanks for the legacy, I hope to be known as half the educator that you were (and are) to me!
Theme song for today: Me and Julio Down By the School Yard by Simon and Garfunkel
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