Aquinas Landmark Spring 2021

13 Twenty-one years ago Vilma Goetting bestowed upon me a gift and an honor, the depth of which I would only begin to understand as the years passed. I knew immediately that Aquinas was different from any other school in which I had previously taught, though I couldn’t at that moment articulate exactly why. I took up residence in Room 206 (now 203) and the balcony (Room 221 at the time). As I was hired three days before the start of school, I was still trying to get my wits about me when my first seniors, Class of 2000, filed in for English 12 with the new guy, Mr. Shook. This was the beginning of twenty-one (so far) challenging, rewarding, amazing, wonderful, fulfilling years. I discovered that I loved those kids; I loved my job; I loved Aquinas. In the years that have followed, I decided to “get involved,” as I now tell new teachers, so I could partake in all facets of the Aquinas experience. It was during these times as a baseball coach, an assistant director for theatre, the yearbook advisor, and a moderator for countless activities, I was able to ascertain why Aquinas was special: FAMILY. Family is a word that is used a great deal in the building, on the fields, and in the Aquinas community, but it is no less powerful for its extensive use. Truth doesn’t cease to be truth because it is repeated often; Aquinas is a special, tight-knit family during the best of times, but especially so during times of crisis. I have never seen a community come together and support its own like Aquinas. Unfortunately, like any family, we have lost members throughout the years, beloved teachers and students. In these moments, Aquinas rallies together making us all stronger. It is here that LOVE is made manifest, that force that binds us all together. I know I am blessed to be an Aquinas teacher with my small role to play in this epic adventure. While I was home in the spring during a time of crisis schooling, I missed my family terribly; though I never took for granted the gift that Ms. Goetting gave me so many years ago, it was definitely on the forefront of my thoughts for those months. Once again the Aquinas family has banded together, found creative ways to overcome the obstacles before them, and loved one another with the strength and vitality of a community united. Aquinas Evermore. AQ English teacher Jim Shook shares his passion for literature with his English 9 Honors class. Time of Reflection Aquinas English teacher Jim Shook looks back on his years at AQ and shares what he believes has made his time so special.