After the rigorous winter and spring we have gone through, I know that all of us are ready for some
wondrous weather. I can see now why English and American poets have been so enraptured by
spring. If the weather ever gets warm, I am even tempted to try an anapest or two in tribute.
Those of you who were unable to attend the spring conference in
Madison missed a great time. Our numbers weren't great, but our enthusiasm surely was.
What I enjoyed most was simply talking to all of the great English teachers from around the state.
I had my battery charged. Make plans NOW to attend next year's spring meeting: March 27 and 28 at Chamberlain.
More information is in an article in the newsletter.
We need more members in SDCTE.
If all of us convinced just one other person to become a member, we would have 150 members.
That number would be a new record. What's more, we need members who are interested in becoming leaders.
I know that these talented people are out there; we just need to get them interested.
Moreover, if we are ever going to have significant political sway, we need the necessary support.
One hundred and fifty dedicated members could be a very potent influence in making needed changes in education.
The round table discussion at the spring conference featured a frank
discussion between college and high school teachers. It was refreshing to listen to so many excellent teachers discussing our mutual
problems. I think that this session should be repeated many times. We
just don't get the opportunity for building bridges very often. The atmosphere was friendly and informal
and allowed us all to see that we do share many of the same problems.
On the next page you will find nomination forms for our annual selection
of Teacher of the Year and South Dakota Author of the Year. Please take time consider nominating
some good South Dakota teacher or writer for this award. We need to recognize excellence.
This year's winners, Sharon Olbertson and Linda Hasselstrom are an inspiration for all of us.
My last plea is for help in writing the newsletter.
Please let us know if you have gone to a conference or are involved in an interesting professional activity.
We need to share our knowledge and our experience. In this issue, for instance, Bonnie Wuertz of
Aberdeen High School sent us a list of good journal "starters" she has developed in her classroom.
How about the rest of you? Do us all a good turn and share your treasures with us.
Have a great summer .