Friday, April 17, 2009
Mr. Laudick was my forensics, debate, and quiz bowl coach; my drama director; and my favorite teacher at SCHS. Unlike so many people who work with young adults he didn't take the easy route by pandering to us and trying to be our friend -- he was demanding, difficult, thorough, and uncompromising -- a true educator. However, he wasn't merely strict, but remarkably kind and generous as well. He was always available to his students, and spent many hours of personal time tutoring and coaching anyone who wanted to take advantage of it. He brought treats to practice and hosted us at his home for a holiday party to celebrate our hard work. He took as much pride in our accomplishments as we did -- in some cases, more than anyone else in a student's life. I visited him several times after I graduated and I only wish I'd ever been able to say more clearly, from an adult perspective, what a remarkable teacher and man he was. Teaching can be a lonely and thankless calling, more so when the teacher is selfless enough to push his students to work beyond their best instead of giving them easy praise. Thank you, Mr. Laudick, for giving so much of your life to your students.
