A Tribute to Herc Paloumpis by a Former Student
I was headed for trouble, but each time I can remember being called into his office, he would gently, and yet sternly, speak to me and tell me what I did wrong, how I should fix it, and always ended with words of encouragement ..."Now go out there; stop looking for trouble; and DO the RIGHT thing! Honestly, child!" with the little "smirk of Herc," as I called it. I entered his office on many occasions crying, but always left feeling loved and confident that I could do anything. I just always wanted him to know that it was his kind words and diligence that saved my life. Once, I had given up on life all together, and tried to commit suicide by overdosing on sleeping pills. He, and Mr. Murphy, not only literally saved my life that day at school, but have always been in my thoughts every day since. I am grateful to them both. From then on, I have only striven to do the best at all I set out to do in this life. I live my life striving to do the greater good.
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I have several wonderful children, some of which are adopted, became a social worker, have fostered 34 teenagers in my home, and now that my children are grown, I went back to school to fulfill my life long dream and finally became a nurse. I work with the elderly and also with patients in hospice. I am SO happy to have finally made a connection, after all these years of looking, with Mr. Paloumpis, and to have the opportunity to thank him properly...to let him know that he STILL impacts his students...this one at least...in such a positive way. Norma Jeane (Tibbs) Smith
How many people can say that their actions saved someone's life.? I can't think of a more powerful emotion to experience. Finally, I received a letter from Patrick Murphy who worked with Mr. Paloumpis and who was also praised in Norma Jeane's letter. Its contents are below:
I was really fortunate to begin my teaching career with Mr. Paloumpis. He was firm, fair, had a great sense of humor, and made his expectations of faculty and students very clear. Mr. Paloumpis was a strong supporter and a great champion of new teachers, and he clearly loved working with the kids. I'll never forget my interview. Fresh out of college, I was prepared to answer questions about educational philosophy, grading procedures, and other academic concerns.
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