Clarissa Calantoc appreciates Mr. Thompson Ly, a teacher at INDEPENDENCE HIGH SCHOOL in San Jose, CA

In March, I was going through a lot with school where I felt at my lowest. I had reached out to you because I needed someone to talk to, especially someone I knew could help me with school. We set up a zoom meeting, and even though I was nervous and scared to reach out to anyone, let alone a counselor, you reassured me that everything will be okay, and that’s all I wanted to hear. I felt like a huge weight off my chest, knowing that someone knew I was struggling, and offered help. Thank you for all the help you do for students. Your words and help guided me to where I need to be, and after our meeting, I wouldn’t have seen myself in a different light than I do now. I am more aware and grounded than I was a couple of months ago. I understand that it’s okay to feel sad or sometimes even hopeless because even you, a counselor, go through a lot. I appreciate how understanding you are because this year hasn’t been the best due to the pandemic. In my Leadership class, I reflected on this quote that said: "There is no doubt that a teacher will forever impact upon a child's life. The question is, will that impact be a positive one or a negative one?" (William Logan) and as I read that quote, I started to think of all the teachers and staff that influenced me throughout my years of school. You popped up into my mind because I remember the conformity I felt when I opened up to you about school, etc. Not only have you impacted my life in a positive way, but there's also no doubt in my mind that you haven’t impacted other students as well. Again, thank you for everything you do for students, whether it’s getting us on the right path for college or simply just listening to our problems.

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