In the past months, the Gazette has published several articles about Easthampton High School’s “We the People” academic team, which recently returned from Washington, D.C., where they represented the commonwealth in the national competition.
I write to give a public thank you to their teacher Kelley Brown. She is the force behind the dedication and commitment of her students. She is the role model these students will take with them as they leave high school and go out into new worlds.
Several years ago, I was considering a new life adventure and I went to Brown for advice. After explaining my hopes I ask, “Do you think I can do this?” With no hesitation she answered, “That is a question I never ask, so I really don’t have an answer. When I have a goal, I just decide to start the work that needs to be done.”
I witnessed Brown put these words into action as she coached her students to win the state “We The People” competition and worked to raise the $35,000 needed to make the trip to nationals, while all the time teaching her regular history classes.
Brown’s presence is a gift to her students and to the larger community of Easthampton. I celebrate the hope she represents and say thank you.
Nancy Sykes
Easthampton