An Inspirational Teacher: Mr. Gregory Tome

Carl Jung wrote, “One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.”

That is how I felt about Mr.Gregory Tome. Mr.Tome taught at Edgar Fahs Smith Middle School in York City of Pennsylvania. Mr.Tome has taught Science classes to all of my four children. However, he made a huge impression in one of my sons. His inspirational way of teaching has a long lasting impact on my son. When my son nominated Mr.Tome for the teacher of the year award, he wrote the following letter.

“I remember Mr.Tome well. He began each class with a sly joke or some sarcastic wit. Throughout the class, he educated us about the laws of the universe and nature's work. At the end, he engaged us in conversation and answered our questions.”

“Mr.Tome wasn’t just the best teacher. He was also a witty comedian. Mr.Tome could make anything funny. At one point, he placed a classmate’s big sister’s photo on the board and wrote, “I’m watching you” under it. In December, a “BAH! HUMBUG” pin could be seen on him. Students didn’t have detention in his room, they had “3:00 O’Clock Club”. Mr.Tome didn’t thank people very much. Instead, he thanked them “very little”. His sense of humor was without rival.”

“Having the world’s best funny bone would mean nothing if he couldn’t teach. Thankfully, Mr.Tome was also an excellent educator. He didn’t teach his students. He enlightened them. We didn’t just learn about the periodic table. We learned how it came to be and how it was arranged. Mr.Tome knew how to enlighten a class.”

“Despite all his knowledge, Mr.Tome never acted arrogant. He was actually a nice guy. Mr.Tome was always willing to help anyone out. He respected people’s opinions, and never insulted anyone for their views. If the class ever got out of control, he never flipped. He’d respectably tell the class to quiet down.”

“While we left the classroom, Mr.Tome would throw out some random trivia or a final punch line. He answered students’ questions, and provided assistance where needed. The memory of Mr.Tome and his classes will stay with me for a long time.”

I am borrowing William A. Ward’s saying and conclude, “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”