Favorite Classes Remembered by School Committee Candidates

This week on Patch we wanted to help Hopkinton voters get to know what makes the School Committee candidates tick and where they stand on various issues. To do this we asked each candidate to respond to four questions from Tuesday, May 15 through Friday, May 18 we will feature all of the candidates' responses to one question.

All four candidates are running for two open positions in the election.

The third question the candidates answered was mentioned by several respondents as their favorite. They told us about their favorite class from when they were in school.

3.) What was your favorite class as a student and what made it special for you?

Jean Bertschmann: Growing up, my family moved around a lot, and I attended public schools in five states. I had many excellent teachers and engaging classes, but as I reflect on those years, my junior high school debate teacher, Mrs. Drinnon, really stands out. Although I did not realize it then, “Debate with Mrs. D” taught me many life lessons and skills that I employ on a daily basis as an adult. She taught us to speak extemporaneously in public; to listen and process information rapidly and to be able to respond quickly with an articulate position; the relevance of politics to daily life; and the skills required and value of thorough research. She was a tireless and dedicated teacher with high standards, a contagious desire to learn, and a supportive style and I am deeply indebted to her. 

Jon Graziano: While it wasn’t necessarily my best subject in school, there was a particular science class that I will always count as my favorite. My sixth grade science class, taught by Mrs. Von Mayrhauser changed the way I looked at learning as a student. It was from her that I first understood that learning was not about memorization of material but about asking questions, challenging assumptions, and, occasionally, failing but learning from that failure. These are principles that I have carried with me throughout my education and work. They are also principles that I hope to pass along to my children as they grow and learn. I will always remember that class and, more importantly Mrs. Von Mayrhauser. I hope that every student is lucky enough to have teachers that care enough to not only teach the material but to shape future learning.

Frank Sivo: My favorite class in school was a high school U.S. Literature class. It was not that I was naturally drawn to the subject. In fact as a self-proclaimed “Math/Science guy” who had previously struggled with such topics due to dyslexia, I actually was dreading this mandatory class at the start of the school year. However, within weeks, I realized that I had one of the most gifted teachers on the planet. For that entire school year I was engulfed by the subject as taught by a passionate teacher who created enthusiasm for the subject and tailored her style and supports to the needs for the individual student. 

I went on to excel in more “natural” subjects such as physics, calculus, and chemistry taught by less gifted teachers. I probably enjoyed them more. However, my favorite educational memories are still of US Literature. I will never forget the magic that a gifted teacher creates. These teachers are treasures and need to be identified, rewarded and allowed to mentor others who can drive the same educational excellence.  

Frank D'Urso: 9^th Grade Earth Science. Because the teacher was fully engaged and inspired us to learn about the environment.  He integrated history, science, current events into compelling life lessons. Thank you Mr. Collins, where ever you are.