WHS Celebrates Teacher Appreciate Day

By: The Eagle Eye Staff

Have you said thank you to any of your teachers this week? If no, then you should because this week is Teacher Appreciation Week. Journalism students at Wethersfield High School have written their favorite memories about their favorite teachers. Their goal is to let teachers know how much they have contributed to their high school careers. Theses stories are memories that will always be remembered. Whether it’s a funny or empowering memory, we all appreciate the teachers here. This article is our simple way of saying thank you to the teachers at WHS.

Miss Alexopoulos
One the best memories I have with Miss Alexopoulos is she taught us when she taught us about the core of the Earth my freshman year.  I never knew about the core until 2014. I ended up having Miss Alexopoulos for my Senior year of highschool and she ended up being one of favorite teachers of all time. Senior year she teaches us stuff we learned freshman year just like the center part of the corre.
Jason A Dignoti   

Mr. Sand
One of the most memorable lessons a teacher has taught me over the past few years was Mr. Sand’s lesson showing us how our minds have been conditioned to think a certain way in accordance to the system we live in. He showed us the importance of independent thinking and the fact that we are free within our own minds and if we allow ourselves to change this thinking, we’re capable of anything we want in our life.
Enrique Flores

Mr. Jensen
I’ve had many teachers over the years and it’s strange that my favorite teacher is one of the final teacher's I’ll have during my Wethersfield High School career.  The teacher I’d like to thank this year is Mr.Jensen. He’s been an inspiration to be honest, someone who I look up to and even though I don’t always perform incredibly in his class he still wants to see me succeed and he treats me the same as he treats every other students. Most importantly though he holds me to the same high standards as everyone else. It’s admirable to do that and it’s something I appreciate him doing. I’m going on to college and I’m going to remember the lessons that he’s taught me and I’m going to strive to succeed in the future and to change. He taught me that words are cheap and you need to actually work to see change. Thank you Mr.Jensen.
Nicholas Laramie

Mr. Roets
Mr. Roets is my current English teacher for Honors American Literature. I have never met anybody who has had so much enthusiasm in teaching literature. His classroom is an environment that always makes students feel comfortable and safe. Mr. Roets is always there to help you whenever you need it. He showed us how to become intelligent writers, but he also showed us how we are entitled to our own opinions and to think for ourselves. He makes everything so simple and fun at the same time. Roets does extremely well at his job, and anyone who takes his class will see how much of an influence his style of teaching will have on you not only as a writer, but as a person as well.
Elena Lapa

Mr. Ferret
Mr. Ferret is the coolest teacher we have at Wethersfield High School. He is the type of person who wouldn’t just acknowledge you if he sees you, but he would stop and talk to you. One memory I have with Mr. Ferret was when the Mets lost the World Series and he was out for two days after they lost. That is the realest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. Just kidding you had a field trip but the timing was pretty ironic. Aside from that, I honestly was not looking forward to U.S. History which was the class I had with him, but he somehow made it fun, interesting, and I got a lot out of it. To make what seems like a boring class into something I’m glad I was able to take is something special. Wethersfield High School is blessed to have an amazing teacher like Mr. Feret. If this was the MLB I’d give him a 10-year $200,000,000 contract. He’s like an all star teacher that every school wishes they had. Thank you for being a part of my life Mr. Ferret. You are one of the greatest teachers of all time.
Ian Luna

Mrs. Ryba
Mrs. Ryba has inspired me in many ways as she described her life to me. One time during my values unit in Mr. Martin’s English class, I discussed with her that she is the person I hope to be when I grow up. She described the top three values to me as “compassion: loving myself was hard for a very long time but now that I do I realize it is everything.” She continued “my next would be inner peace it is something that I work on everyday and lastly I would say balance”. I really enjoyed her talk about those things because in comparison to my values that are mostly emotions she values emotions as well/ states of mind, She inspired me so much when she went up to the board saying “I don’t want to be considered normal I want to be considered nuts. I want people to feel my passion. I live my life like this [draws huge wave on the board]. You could live your life like this [draws straight line on the board], but don’t. Do not be one of those people! You know what I call those people? Flatliners. Don’t live your life that way”. That inspired to value life in a whole new way, shape and form that I want a tattoo of the image of huge waves now saying “you get one chance at this.” I will never forget that moment as it made me value life that much more.  
Sabrina Torres

Mr. Palazzo
One memory I have with Mr. Palazzo is spending an entire day with him at Disneyland in California. This means a lot to me because I got to know a lot about Mr. Palazzo throughout the entire day. We spent the entire day going on every ride in the park. In the lines, we talked and caught up with each other. Thank you for being a great teacher and an overall good person.
Sean Arcouette

Mr. Moger
Mr. Moger has inspired me to be the best person I can be. Although I’ve never had Mr. Moger as a teacher, I have been able to be lucky enough to get to know him outside of the classroom. He has always been a person to look up to and one of the nicest teachers in the school. Thank you for being such an inspiration.
Mike Murphy

Mr. Dion
One teacher that has inspired me is Mr. Dion. He is the band teacher here at WHS and he’s one of the most chill teachers I know. He teaches students not only about music, but also about being a good person, and being a compassionate one too. He genuinely cares about his students and treats us like true adults. When I joined the band, I only knew the basics of a keyboard, but he took me in and taught me how to play at the same level as everyone else in the band in just a couple of weeks. He not only teaches concert band and orchestra, but he also runs the Marching Band. That takes an incredible amount of time, and effort that for one, is under appreciated, but I know every single student in the band is a better person and better musician because of the experience and would never regret doing band. He is an incredibly talented, and kind person and deserves all the praise he receives.
Courtney Cerbo

Mrs. Ryba
There are a ton of memories that I share with Mrs. Ryba because she is my advisory teacher and has been there for me since the beginning. I was very shy before coming into high school but the moment I stepped into the building she was there and immediately brightened my day. Mrs. Ryba is the type of person that wears the most unique outfits and is always peppy. Her special personality rubbed off on me by the end of sophomore year, which made me the outgoing person that I am today. In advisory she takes the lessons to heart which makes the time interesting instead of boring. She loves to get to know you no matter who you are and cares about your opinions and what you have to say. I would love to thank Mrs. Ryba for teaching me one of life’s most important lessons, having confidence, and being an awesome person to talk to.
Chianna Calafiore

Mrs. Ryba
Mrs. Ryba was my English teacher my freshman year, and she was one teacher who I felt genuinely cared about not just her students, but people in general.  She was always enthusiastic about everything and full of life.  There was one specific day where she was telling us about her past, and how she switched her career to education, because she felt that she wanted to give back to the world, and she believed passing along education was the way to go.  She then continued on to explain how important it is to give back and to value your life and the world that surrounds you.  Mrs. Ryba shared with the class that she has had her own struggles, but seeing her so happy and kind, it was shocking.  In general, she was inspiring because she was such a positive person and was so true to herself.  Ever since my freshman year, I’ve held on to numerous lessons she’s taught me, because she reminds to be content with the little things and life, and more than anything else, to be who I am.
Hannah Pearce

Mrs. Colangelo
Our 7th period class junior year shared many memories with Mrs. Colangelo. From walking into her room everyday singing to random outbursts of laughter during class, I have to commend her on her patience with us as a class. Although we were definitely a difficult class that had many strengths and weaknesses, she never gave up on us and knew that we had potential.  Even when we thought we weren’t going to do well on a test, she assured us that we knew the information and were going to do fine. Everyone in the class learned at different paces and she adapted well to our class. Mrs. Colangelo is not only a great teacher, but she is a great person. As a class, we felt very comfortable talking to her and asking her for help with things outside of the classroom as well which is very important for a high school student. Thank you for always being positive and for making our math class a great environment to not only learn, but be ourselves.
Christian Prado

Mr. Sand
One memory I share and will never forget was with the one and only John Sand, I honestly don't think I would've gotten into college without his recommendation letter. After reading the letter I was bawling my eyes out, that's how detailed and amazing the letter was, I can't even describe it. My sister had him a couple years ago and he left such an impact on her life that they still talk to this day. She would tell me all these stories and how amazing he was. He wrote her recommendation letter as well, that was my one plan in high school going in as a freshman. I couldn't wait to see what she was talking about, all I can say is he was exactly what I imagined he would be and much more. He cares so much about his students and wants to be involved in their lives. Spending a week with him in Belize was unBELIZEable, he does these trips all for the students, just to have an experience in another country. All he wants is to see his students succeed and do great things in their lives(especially travel the world). He's made a huge impact on my life, and my family's. After I graduate, I plan on keeping in contact with him for a long time. Thank you so much for being there for me when I needed someone.
Amy Oliveira

SCO!
Whether it is a loud greeting in the morning or a wave from afar,  you have to take a moment to appreciate gym teacher and coach, Sco.  Sco has been teaching at Wethersfield High school for over 30 years.  In fact, he taught and coach my dad when he was a student at Wethersfield High.  My favorite memory of Sco over all was having him coach me freshman year for soccer.   I also appreciated seeing him on the sideline of my varsity games supporting the young men he once coached.  Sco takes the time for every student at Wethersfield High.  Most of all ,he remembers who he has taught including current students’ parents.  Sco has a passion for his job and is a positive influence on not on students but also teachers.  Sco, thank you for making us all laugh or smile when we needed it.  We all appreciate your positivity here at Wethersfield High.       
Rich Sipala

Ms.Alexopoulos
I would like to thank Ms.Alexopoulos for teaching me how to have patience. I have Environmental Issues six period and our class never stops talking and she always finds a way to not flip out and be patient with everyone in the class. Ms.A is the nicest teacher in the school and she is a great example of violence is not the answer when you are frustrated with a classroom full of students. I have so much respect for her and she shows that patience is key in life.
Oscar Romero

Mrs. Riordan
Since I joined Lit Mag I have shared many memories with Mrs. Riordan, there is never a blue moment with her.  I always look forward to wednesday’s Lit Mag meetings.  She was always very excited to see my work which made me want to do more.  I remember one time I attempted to draw and she encouraged me to keep trying since I wasn't very good.  Mrs. Riordan is so sweet and there is never a dull moment around her.  I’m glad one of my friends convinced me to join Lit mag because if I didn't join I wouldn't have met Mrs Riordan.
Jenalee Noyes

Ms. Guarino
One teacher that I really want to thank is Ms. Guarino. I had Ms. Guarino for both my freshman and sophomore English classes and I will never forget those two years. Ms. Guarino was always filled with positive energy and always made the class energetic every day that I had her. She was always willing to offer help with a smile and truly cared about her students. Thank you for the two years of great classes!
Justin Bianchi

Dr.Devivo
One memory I have with Dr. Devivo is the nickname she gave me first period freshman year she called me Bacon Boy because I would always talk about bacon for breakfast or come into her class with a bacon and egg sandwich. Sometimes she still calls me bacon boy every now and then and it’s my senior year. This memory stuck with me because I still laugh about it to this day and so does she.
Nate Bartenstein

Mr. Walsh
One memory i have with Mr. Walsh isn't really one specific memory, it was my whole freshman year. I had Mr. Walsh for Integrated Science second period, and he was the first academic teacher i had at WHS. I can’t remember one time my whole freshman year that Mr. Walsh was ever in a bad mood, and that is probably my favorite memory i have of him. Every time I walked into this man’s classroom, he never failed to start my morning off right, whether he would joke around with me and the rest of the class to start up a comedy act in the middle of class, or tell us how much he loves ketchup, Mr. Walsh would always manage to keep us enjoying being in the classroom with him. Mr. Walsh is the reason why I have the respect that I have for the teachers here at WHS, he had such a good impression on me when I first entered this school, i gained much respect for my teachers as my years went on. Mr. Walsh definitely had the biggest impact on my high school career because he tried his hardest for me to have a great first year of high school, and from time to time i still catch up with Mr. Walsh and i tell him how my final year of High School is going, and he tells me how to perform my last year so i can leave this place in peace. John Walsh will go down as my favorite teacher at WHS, he does his job very well, and never fails to make a student happy.
Matthew DiMattia

Mrs. Sunbury
I’m thankful for Mrs. Sunbury because my junior year I was taking pre-calc with her and I was really struggling throughout the year and she gave me so much extra time and so much extra help to make sure I succeeded and passed that class. And I even ended up getting the highest score on a test out of the whole class because of the help from her and the tutor she got for me. She really helped me and I appreciate her never giving up on me.
Chris Montalvo

Mrs. McGrath
​Mrs. McGrath is one of my favorite teachers in this school. She is someone you can talk about anything with, and she is always waiting with open ears. I had her sophomore year for Italian, and she made it more fun than just sitting there and learning a language, it’s almost like we learned Italian without even realizing it. It is now her first year of being the Italian National Honor Society advisor, and we’ve sat in so many meetings talking about Mrs. Dembek. We all wonder how anyone could possibly fill her shoes. Mrs. McGrath says, “I miss her, but she didn’t leave me anything...what do you guys do here?” The important thing is that we get together in a small group where we all feel comfortable and actually want to go to, while still spreading Italian culture. She loves to spread her Italian heritage, “even with my bleach blonde hair and Irish name”. Mrs. McGrath is always laughing and talking to her is like a breath of fresh air. She wishes the best for everyone, and always boosts your confidence and assures you that you’re doing alright. I have to thank her for being so helpful and thoughtful as a teacher and a person.
Nora Serrao

Mr. Martin
Mr. Martin by far one of the most supportive teachers at the high school. Since we met on my first day of journalism last year, Mr. Martin has supported me in many ways whether it be pushing me one step further in my writing skills, coming to a volleyball game or stopping by to visit me at work. I’ve never had a teacher who was so enthusiastic about their job. Something that I find so refreshing about Mr. Martin is that he doesn’t sugarcoat things, he says it as it is, that’s why it’s so easy to talk to him. Mr. Martin spreads his positivity and passion for life everyday and that is something that I truly admire. I’m really going to miss him next year, but I know that we will stay in touch. Thanks for being so awesome Mr. Martin!
Trisha Signorello
Mrs Ricardi
I've never had a teacher who cares so much about her students like Mrs. Ricardi does. She puts so much time and effort into helping her students succeed. Mrs. Ricardi has helped me realize my true potential and I've been so fortunate to be part of Deca with her. She knows what I'm capable of and challenges me to think more creatively and deeper. Mrs. Ricardi always knows exactly what to say to brighten my day and she makes me feel confident in my abilities.  She makes me laugh and I love talking to her about family, our curly hair and our favorite TV shows.  Mrs. Ricardi is more than a teacher to me and I'm going to miss seeing her and how she always says “you're awesome” to me!
Mariana Carcia
Thank you to all teachers and staff for making Wethersfield High School a great experience for students.  Happy Teacher Appreciation Day!

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