To complement this post, please see: “On Gratitude: Finding Time To Say Thank You To Those Who Have Inspired” by Robyn Shulman at Chicago Now.
Written by a special guest: Dr. Guy Schumacher, Superintendent of Schools, Libertyville Elementary School District 70
I am currently the Superintendent of Schools in Libertyville, Illinois. After 27 years in education, I still find myself referring to my favorite teacher, Miss Martin. Nearly five decades ago, the summer before second grade, my family moved to a new town and on my first day at Douglas MacArthur Elementary in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, I was nervous. Then Miss Martin welcomed me with a warm, encouraging smile — a moment that stayed with me forever.
Coincidentally, Miss Martin later married my sixth-grade teacher, Mr. Richards. The stories I remember about both of them have never left me. Wanting to express my gratitude and learn where they were now, I searched for them online and eventually reconnected. Last November, on a beautiful autumn evening, we met for dinner. It was an extraordinary night: we caught up, shared memories, and I had the chance to tell two remarkable educators how much they had influenced a young boy’s life.
Below is the letter I mailed to them this fall:
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Richards,
Before I begin by thanking you, I must apologize for imposing and for taking so long to reach out. I want to explain who I am and why I sought you out.
I was the new second-grade boy at Douglas MacArthur Elementary in 1967. I remember walking into class and being greeted by a teacher whose warm smile calmed my nerves. The memory has stayed with me ever since. Over time, I came to value school deeply, and by sixth grade two teachers in particular—Miss Martin and Mr. Richards—helped shape my view of learning and growing.
Today I serve as a superintendent in a wonderful community, and I wanted you to know how often you are remembered and how much you meant to me. I’m sorry I didn’t say this sooner. Friends, colleagues, and my late mother—who was also an educator—encouraged me to write. In reflecting on my elementary years, I hope the kindness, care, and high expectations you showed me are the same qualities we foster among the staff I work with in Libertyville School District 70.
I often tell the story about winning a candy cane in December for correctly spelling “Illinois.” I also remember being moved to a desk beside Miss Martin—likely to keep me from talking—but I loved being there. I recall walking with Miss Martin to show Miss Left how much my reading had improved, and learning to point accurately to North, South, East, and West. I felt safe with her, especially the day we huddled in the corridor during a tornado warning. And I can still smile at the memory of placing my cheese sandwich on the hallway radiator in the morning and finding it toasted at lunchtime.
Other memories faded, but Mr. Richards’ support in sixth grade remains vivid. In the early 1970s, he understood the importance of both academic rigor and social-emotional growth. When I faced social challenges, he offered guidance, encouragement, and practical support that motivated me to keep achieving. His care made a lasting difference.
I know you influenced many students during your careers, but you had a profound impact on me. Thank you for everything you did for that new boy in Hoffman Estates who was fortunate to have spent time in your classrooms.
With deep gratitude and respect,
Guy Schumacher